Taurolidine and catheter-related bloodstream infection: a systematic review of the literature.

Catheter-related bloodstream infection remains the most common serious complication associated with long-term parenteral nutrition. Taurolock (Bio-Implant HealthCare, Winsen, Germany), which contains taurolidine, is being marketed as a central venous catheter lock solution for decreasing the risk of catheter sepsis. To review available literature and examine the evidence for efficacy of taurolidine in prevention of central venous catheter-related infection. Search of MEDLINE, Embase, and the Internet for all studies involving use of taurolidine to prevent central venous catheter infection. Six in vitro and 11 in vivo studies were assessed. Although in vivo studies suggest a possible useful role for taurolidine, the evidence base from clinical studies is poor, with much of it observational or of poor methodology. The evidence is insufficient to warrant routine use of taurolidine. However, results of in vitro studies are encouraging and further adequately powered and well-designed randomized trials are required.