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[2 newborn infants with septicemia caused by multiresistant Streptococcus mitis]
1Centraal Klinisch Bacteriologisch, Academisch Ziekenhuis, Leiden.
Abstract:
Multiresistant viridans streptococci had not yet been encountered in the Netherlands. In the spring of 1990 we isolated multiresistant S. mitis from blood of two Dutch neonates (minimal inhibitory concentration of penicillin 64 mg/l). In both patients septicaemia developed while they were being treated with beta-lactam antibiotics. Although viridans streptococci usually are extremely sensitive to penicillin and other beta-lactams, the possibility of development of (multi-)resistance in these microorganisms during antibiotic treatment should be kept in mind.
Insights
Multiresistant viridans streptococci, including Streptococcus mitis, were identified in Dutch neonates. This finding is significant as these bacteria typically remain sensitive to penicillin and beta-lactam antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Viridans streptococci are typically highly susceptible to penicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics.
- Multiresistant strains of viridans streptococci had not previously been reported in the Netherlands.
Observation:
- In the spring of 1990, multiresistant Streptococcus mitis was isolated from the blood of two neonates in the Netherlands.
- Both neonates developed septicemia while undergoing treatment with beta-lactam antibiotics.
Findings:
- The isolated Streptococcus mitis strains exhibited significant resistance to penicillin (minimal inhibitory concentration of 64 mg/l).
- This represents the first documented instance of multiresistant viridans streptococci in the Netherlands.
Implications:
- The emergence of multiresistance in typically susceptible bacteria like viridans streptococci is a growing concern.
- Clinicians should consider the potential for (multi-)resistance development in these microorganisms during antibiotic therapy.
- This case highlights the need for ongoing surveillance of antimicrobial resistance patterns in healthcare settings.