title: [Infections in splenectomized patient].
abstract: Overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI) is a long-term risk in asplenic patients, which may be controlled by appropriate preventive measures. Specific guidelines have been developed to reduce its incidence. These guidelines include immunizations, antibioprophylaxis, and education. Immunizations against S. pneumoniae, N. meningitidis, Hamophilus influenzae, and influenza should be administered. Antibioprophylaxis during 2 to 5 years following splenectomy in children, and 2 years in adults is recommended. Furthermore, long-term education is mandatory. Application of preventing measures is effective and patient's education remains the cornerstone of prevention.
authors.affiliation: Université Paris-Descartes, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, hôpital Necker-Enfants malades, Paris, France. helene.coignard@nck.aphp.fr
authors.forename: Hélène
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Coignard-Biehler
authors.forename: Fanny
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Lanternier
authors.forename: Mariane
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: de Montalembert
authors.forename: Nizar
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Mahlaoui
authors.forename: Felipe
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Suarez
authors.forename: Marc
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Lecuit
authors.forename: Olivier
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Lortholary
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D019072:Antibiotic Prophylaxis; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D013154:Spleen / Q000098:blood supply / Q000502:physiology; D013156:Splenectomy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013997:Time Factors; D014611:Vaccination