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Emergence of a multiply-resistant strain of Acinetobacter in a burns unit
Annals of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore
|September 1, 1992
Abstract:
Multiply-resistant Acinetobacter has emerged as an important organism in the Burns Unit of the Singapore General Hospital. From November 1990 onwards, a strain that was resistant to all antibiotics except Polymyxin B emerged in the Burns Unit. We present two cases where the Acinetobacter isolated was resistant to all antibiotics including Polymyxin B. These cases serve as an important reminder to adhere to strict infection control procedures.
Insights
Acinetobacter strains resistant to all antibiotics, including Polymyxin B, have been identified in burn patients. Strict infection control is crucial to manage this multiply-resistant organism.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hospital Epidemiology
Background:
- Acinetobacter is a significant pathogen in healthcare settings, particularly in burn units.
- The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria poses a growing threat to patient care.
- Polymyxin B has been a last-resort antibiotic for treating infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria.
Observation:
- A specific strain of Acinetobacter resistant to all antibiotics except Polymyxin B emerged in the Burns Unit of Singapore General Hospital starting November 1990.
- Two cases are presented where the isolated Acinetobacter strain exhibited resistance to all tested antibiotics, including Polymyxin B.
Findings:
- The study documents the occurrence of Acinetobacter strains with pan-resistance (resistance to all antibiotics).
- This pan-resistance includes resistance to Polymyxin B, a critical antibiotic for treating MDR Acinetobacter infections.
Implications:
- These findings highlight the urgent need for enhanced infection control measures in healthcare facilities.
- The emergence of pan-resistant Acinetobacter necessitates the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
- Adherence to strict protocols is essential to prevent the further spread of untreatable bacterial infections.