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Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
The crisis in antibiotic resistance
1College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|August 21, 1992
Summary
Antibiotic resistance is a growing threat due to bacterial adaptation and extensive drug use. New strategies are needed to combat resistant bacteria and preserve antibiotic effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Widespread antibiotic synthesis has led to complacency regarding bacterial resistance.
- Bacteria develop resistance through chromosomal alterations or genetic exchange via plasmids and transposons.
- Key pathogens like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus, Enterobacteriaceae, and Pseudomonas exhibit resistance to older antibiotics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the escalating crisis of antibiotic resistance.
- To identify the mechanisms driving bacterial resistance.
- To emphasize the need for new strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on antibiotic resistance mechanisms.
- Analysis of the impact of antibiotic usage in community and hospital settings.
- Identification of key bacterial species exhibiting resistance.
Main Results:
- Bacteria have evolved resistance to numerous antibiotics through genetic mechanisms.
- Common respiratory, cutaneous, and systemic infections are increasingly caused by resistant strains.
- Extensive antibiotic use in healthcare and the community has accelerated resistance.
Conclusions:
- Urgent adoption of antibiotic control programs is necessary.
- Enhanced hygiene practices are crucial in limiting the spread of resistant bacteria.
- Development of novel antimicrobial agents with improved efficacy is essential to address the crisis.
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