Increasing occurrence of multidrug-resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii isolates from four German University

M Wadl1, K Heckenbach, I Noll

  • 1Dept. for Infectious DiseaseEpidemiology, Robert Koch-Institute, Berlin, Germany. wadlm@rki.de

Infection
|January 29, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Multidrug-resistance (MDR) in Acinetobacter baumannii is increasing in German hospitals, particularly in intensive care units. Monitoring antimicrobial susceptibility is crucial for effective patient treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Antimicrobial Resistance

Background:

  • Acinetobacter baumannii causes severe infections in critically ill patients.
  • Multidrug-resistance (MDR) complicates treatment options.
  • Limited data exists on MDR A. baumannii prevalence in German hospitals.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the extent of MDR in A. baumannii isolates from German hospitals.
  • To identify factors associated with the emergence of MDR.
  • To assess in vitro antibiotic effectiveness against MDR A. baumannii.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of A. baumannii isolates from 2002-2006.
  • Broth dilution method for antimicrobial resistance testing.
  • Multivariable logistic regression to identify risk factors for MDR.

Main Results:

  • MDR prevalence increased from 2.1% (2002) to 7.9% (2006).
  • Higher MDR rates observed in intensive care units and with increasing isolation year.
  • Meropenem, imipenem, and ampicillin/sulbactam showed lowest resistance rates.

Conclusions:

  • A rising trend of MDR A. baumannii in German hospitals is indicated.
  • Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and resistance surveillance are essential.
  • Clinicians should anticipate increasing MDR challenges.

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