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Published on: May 8, 2013

Glycopeptide resistance in staphylococci

K Hiramatsu1, H Hanaki

  • 1Department of Bacteriology, Juntendo University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.

Current Opinion in Infectious Diseases
|October 13, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Glycopeptide antibiotics are crucial for treating resistant Gram-positive bacteria. This review examines emerging glycopeptide resistance in staphylococci, covering resistance mechanisms, spread, and treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Glycopeptide antibiotics are vital for treating multidrug-resistant Gram-positive pathogens like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and enterococci.
  • Emerging vancomycin resistance in enterococci and low-level glycopeptide resistance in staphylococci pose significant clinical challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the mechanisms of glycopeptide resistance in staphylococcal strains.
  • To discuss the epidemiology and control measures for these resistant staphylococci.
  • To explore current and potential therapeutic options for infections caused by these pathogens.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on glycopeptide resistance in staphylococci.
  • Analysis of epidemiological data on the prevalence of resistant strains.
  • Synthesis of information on resistance mechanisms and clinical outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Staphylococcal strains exhibiting low-level glycopeptide resistance are increasingly reported in clinical settings.
  • Understanding resistance mechanisms is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies.
  • Control measures and alternative therapeutic options are needed to combat these infections.

Conclusions:

  • Glycopeptide resistance in staphylococci represents a growing threat to public health.
  • Comprehensive strategies encompassing surveillance, infection control, and novel therapeutics are essential.
  • Further research into resistance mechanisms and treatment efficacy is warranted.

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