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[Aminoglycoside-resistant enterococci a new bacterial hazard]
1Kliniskt mikrobiologiska laboratoriet, Universitetssjukhuset MAS, Malmö. asa.melhus@mikrobiol.mas.lu.se
Lakartidningen
|May 1, 1999
Summary
Enterococci bacteria cause serious human infections and are increasingly resistant to antibiotics. This article discusses their rise as pathogens, resistance mechanisms, and the situation in Sweden.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Context:
- Enterococci are increasingly recognized as significant human pathogens, especially in healthcare settings.
- Historically viewed as low-virulence organisms, their role in infections has grown substantially.
- They possess intrinsic antibiotic resistance and a notable capacity for genetic exchange.
Purpose:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of enterococcal infections.
- To discuss the epidemiology and pathogenic potential of enterococci.
- To detail antibiotic resistance mechanisms and detection methods.
Summary:
- Enterococci are common causes of diverse human infections, emerging as critical pathogens.
- These bacteria exhibit intrinsic resistance to multiple antibiotics and readily share genetic material.
- Rising resistance to ampicillin, aminoglycosides, and glycopeptides complicates treatment.
- The article covers epidemiological factors, mechanisms of action, resistance detection, and the specific context of enterococci in Sweden.
Impact:
- Highlights the growing threat of antibiotic-resistant enterococci in clinical settings.
- Informs healthcare professionals about effective detection and management strategies.
- Provides crucial data on the enterococcal situation in Sweden for public health initiatives.