Low Serum Iron As a Risk Factor for ICU-acquired Bacteremia: Study of a Large Cohort Database

Bloodstream infections in the ICU are a major trigger of morbidity and mortality. Several risk factors for bacteremia have been previously identified, such as presence of a central venous catheter or invasive ventilation [1,2]. Iron is a key element for bacteria growth, and its metabolism is extensively altered by inflammation. We aim to determine whether iron deficiency is a risk or protective factor for bacteremia in the ICU.