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Published on: September 11, 2020

Macrolide and ketolide resistance with Streptococcus pneumoniae

Gary V Doern1

  • 1Clinical Microbiology Laboratories, University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA. gary-doern@uiowa.edu

The Medical Clinics of North America
|November 23, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Macrolide resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae threatens treatment options. Ketolides, like telithromycin, offer a solution by overcoming common resistance mechanisms in North America.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Macrolide antimicrobials are crucial for treating Streptococcus pneumoniae infections.
  • Emerging macrolide resistance in S. pneumoniae compromises clinical efficacy.
  • This resistance necessitates the development of alternative antimicrobial agents.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current status of macrolide and ketolide resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae in North America.
  • To highlight the impact of antimicrobial resistance on treatment strategies for pneumococcal infections.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on macrolide and ketolide resistance patterns.
  • Analysis of resistance mechanisms in Streptococcus pneumoniae.
  • Focus on data from North American clinical settings.

Main Results:

  • Significant macrolide resistance in S. pneumoniae has been observed.
  • Ketolides, such as telithromycin, demonstrate activity against common macrolide-resistant strains.
  • Understanding resistance is key to effective antimicrobial stewardship.

Conclusions:

  • Macrolide resistance poses a significant challenge for treating S. pneumoniae infections.
  • Ketolides represent a promising therapeutic option to overcome existing resistance.
  • Continued surveillance of antimicrobial resistance is essential for public health.

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