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Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
11:17

Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses

Published on: August 30, 2018

Increasing threat of Gram-positive bacterial infections in the intensive care unit setting

J E McGowan1

  • 1Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.

Critical Care Medicine
|May 10, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Multidrug-resistant organisms are a growing concern in intensive care units (ICUs), with vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and spreading resistant bacteria posing significant threats. Effective strategies and intensivist leadership are crucial for combating this global challenge.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Critical Care Medicine
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) in intensive care units (ICUs) globally.
  • Emergence of vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and other resistant Gram-positive bacteria.
  • Cross-contamination of resistant organisms between healthcare and community settings.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance in ICUs.
  • To discuss the evolving epidemiologic patterns of MDROs.
  • To emphasize the need for strategic interventions and leadership in resistance control.

Main Methods:

  • Observational analysis of current trends in antimicrobial resistance.
  • Review of emerging resistance mechanisms and organism spread.
  • Synthesis of current and proposed control strategies.

Main Results:

  • Significant increase in MDROs, including vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
  • Observed spread of resistant organisms between healthcare and community environments.
  • Identification of enterococci with resistance to vancomycin and multiple mechanisms.

Conclusions:

  • Multidrug resistance in ICUs is a critical and expanding global issue.
  • Integrated strategies including infection control, surveillance, and multidisciplinary management are essential.
  • Intensivists must continue to lead research and control efforts against antimicrobial resistance.

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