Microbiological quality of regular diet and viability for immunosuppressed Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer is a disorder characterized by the disordered growth of abnormal cells whose treatment can trigger immunosuppression. Immunosuppressed patients are more susceptible to opportunistic microorganisms, which in contact with the organism, can lead to serious infectious conditions. Thus, the immunosuppressed diet is used to reduce the risk of foodborne illness by restricting foods such as raw vegetables and fruits with thin bark. Objective: Verify the microbiological quality of the geral diet and the viability of its offer for immunosuppressed patients. Methods: From April to May 2016, 120 samples of free diet components (rice, beans, protein plate, garnish, salad and fruit) were investigated. The samples were submitted to microbiological analysis according to the current legislation for the quantification of Coliforms at 45oC, Staphylococcus coagulase positive, Bacillus cereus, Clostridium sulfite reducer and analysis of the presence of Salmonella sp, following a methodology recommended by the American Public Health Association. Results: All samples analyzed were in compliance with current legislation. Discussion: Studies have shown that the relationship between diet for immunosuppressed and decreased risk of food contaminants and infection remains contradictory. The prevalence of unfavorable complications or clinical outcomes is greater among patients who ingest the neutropenic diet or appear neutral when compared to the geral diet. On the other hand, the food acceptance by the neutropenic diet is reduced and the deterioration of the nutritional status of the patient is visible. Conclusion: The availability of geral diet to immunosuppressed patients was considered feasible.