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Antibiotic-resistant enterococci
1Department of Microbiology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Abstract:
Enterococci have emerged as an important cause of nosocomial infection. Successful antibiotic treatment of serious enterococcal infection usually depends on the synergistic bactericidal effect achieved by the combination of a cell wall-active agent, such as ampicillin or a glycopeptide, and an aminoglycoside. However, the prevalence of enterococci resistant to one or more of these antibiotics is increasing, and has resulted in serious therapeutic difficulties. The mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, and the epidemiology, laboratory diagnosis and management of infection with antibiotic-resistant enterococci are discussed.
Insights
Antibiotic-resistant enterococci are a growing threat in hospitals. Understanding resistance mechanisms and improving diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing these difficult-to-treat infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Enterococci are a significant cause of hospital-acquired infections.
- Effective treatment typically relies on synergistic antibiotic combinations (cell wall-active agents + aminoglycosides).
- Increasing antibiotic resistance in enterococci poses serious therapeutic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in enterococci.
- To review the epidemiology of antibiotic-resistant enterococcal infections.
- To outline strategies for laboratory diagnosis and clinical management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on enterococcal antibiotic resistance.
- Analysis of epidemiological data.
- Discussion of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Main Results:
- Enterococci exhibit resistance to key antibiotics used in treatment.
- Rising resistance rates complicate standard therapeutic regimens.
- Mechanisms of resistance vary and impact treatment choices.
Conclusions:
- Antibiotic resistance in enterococci necessitates a thorough understanding of resistance mechanisms.
- Effective management requires accurate laboratory diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies.
- Addressing this challenge is vital for combating nosocomial infections.