Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 27, 2026
Antimicrobial Synergy Testing by the Inkjet Printer-assisted Automated Checkerboard Array and the Manual Time-kill Method
Published on: April 18, 2019
[Update on the susceptibility of streptococci to antibiotics (enterococci and Streptococcus pneumoniae excluded)]
F Faibis1, A Fiacre, M C Demachy
1Centre Hospitalier de Meaux, Laboratoire de microbiologie et d'immunologie, 6-8 Rue Saint-Fiacre, 77104 Meaux. f-faibis@ch-meaux.fr
Abstract:
Over the last years, the emergence of resistance to antibiotics has complicated the management of streptococcal infections. The resistance of streptococci to antibiotics is increasing and seems to be linked to the consumption of antibiotics. Resistances to antibiotics have been noted in all species of streptococci and no family of antibiotics is unaffected by resistances. The incidence of resistance to antibiotics varies from one species to another and according to countries. Presently, even though no Streptococcus pyogenes has shown diminished susceptibility to betalactams, this phenomenon has been reported for some strains in the B, C, and G groups, and for up to 56 % of oral streptococci. As for the resistance to macrolides, it reaches as many as 41 % of Streptococcus pyogenes, 46 % of group B streptococci, and 63 % of oral streptococci responsible for severe infections. This evolution is worrying for all streptococci but particularly for oral streptococci which represent a potential reservoir of virulence genes, notably towards Streptococcus pneumoniae. New families of antibiotics as the ketolides or the oxazolidinones appear to be effective in the treatment of streptococcal infections, but it seems that only a policy of control of the consumption of antibiotics could globally decrease the occurrence of resistance.
Insights
Antibiotic resistance in streptococci is rising globally, impacting treatment efficacy across all species. Controlling antibiotic consumption is crucial to mitigate this growing public health threat.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Increasing antibiotic resistance in streptococcal infections complicates patient management.
- Resistance is observed across all streptococcal species and antibiotic classes.
- Consumption of antibiotics appears linked to the rise in resistance.
Purpose:
- To highlight the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance in streptococci.
- To detail the prevalence of resistance in key streptococcal groups.
- To discuss implications for public health and potential solutions.
Summary:
- Antibiotic resistance is a significant concern in streptococcal infections, with notable resistance to macrolides in Streptococcus pyogenes and oral streptococci.
- While some streptococcal groups show resistance to betalactams, oral streptococci are particularly concerning due to their potential as a reservoir for virulence genes.
- Emerging antibiotics like ketolides and oxazolidinones show promise, but controlling antibiotic consumption is deemed essential for a global decrease in resistance.
Impact:
- Highlights the urgent need for antimicrobial stewardship programs.
- Informs clinical decision-making for treating streptococcal infections.
- Underscores the importance of monitoring resistance patterns for effective public health strategies.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Mechanism of Antibiotic Resistance in MRSA
01:25Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
01:30Development of Antibiotic Resistance
01:20Determinants of Bacterial Pathogenicity and Virulence
01:31Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
01:23Inhibitors of Gram-positive Cell Wall Synthesis