[Antibiotic susceptibility of Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates in Berlin]

Because of the increasing resistance of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, we studied the actual resistance of isolates in Berlin.

85 Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates were collected between 1995 and 1997. Susceptibility testing was performed for penicillin G, tetracycline, spectinomycin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin and azithromycin by agar dilution.

18.8% isolates were resistant or intermediately resistant to penicillin G (including 6 PPNG). 12.9% isolates were resistant, 43.5% intermediately resistant to tetracycline. One strain was resistant against ciprofloxacin, 4 isolates showed increased MIC values (0.06-0.5 mg/l), whereas 78 isolates were fully susceptible (< 0.007 mg/l). All isolates were susceptible to spectinomycin, ceftriaxone, and azithromycin.

Penicillin G and tetracycline should be given only in cases of proven sensibility. Resistance against ciprofloxacin may occur, especially in isolates acquired in south-east Asia. Ceftriaxone, spectinomycin and azithromycin were active against all isolates. The actual resistance situation should be monitored.