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Vancomycin-resistant enterococci
Y Cetinkaya1, P Falk, C G Mayhall
1Department of Healthcare Epidemiology and Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas 77555-0835, USA.
Clinical Microbiology Reviews
|October 12, 2000
Summary
Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are a growing threat due to antibiotic resistance. Understanding VRE history, resistance, and spread is crucial for effective control and treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) emerged in the mid-1980s and have become a significant nosocomial pathogen.
- VRE possess intrinsic resistance and acquire new resistance mechanisms, conferring a selective advantage in the gut microbiome.
- The potential for VRE to transfer resistance genes to other bacteria, like Staphylococcus aureus, is a major public health concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE).
- To discuss the history, epidemiology, and mechanisms of VRE resistance.
- To outline current control measures and treatment options for VRE infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of VRE history, resistance mechanisms, epidemiology, and clinical management.
- Synthesis of data on VRE spread and therapeutic challenges.
- Analysis of VRE control strategies and treatment efficacy.
Main Results:
- VRE have demonstrated rapid global dissemination since their identification.
- Multiple mechanisms contribute to VRE resistance, including intrinsic and acquired resistance genes.
- VRE pose a significant therapeutic challenge due to limited treatment options and the risk of further resistance spread.
Conclusions:
- VRE represent a critical challenge in healthcare settings, necessitating robust infection control.
- Continued surveillance and research into novel therapeutic approaches are essential for managing VRE.
- Preventing the transfer of vancomycin resistance is vital to avert the emergence of pan-resistant pathogens.