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Updated: May 18, 2026
08:58
Isolation and Identification of Waterborne Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria and Molecular Characterization of their Antibiotic Resistance Genes
Published on: March 3, 2023
[Investigation of antimicrobial resistance to Enterococcus faecium]
1Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain. mi1carom@uco.es
Summary
This study on Enterococcus faecium found high resistance to aminoglycosides and low resistance to vancomycin (99.46% susceptible). Six vancomycin-resistant isolates were identified, highlighting the need for control.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Research
Context:
- Antibiotic resistance in Enterococcus faecium is a growing global health concern.
- E. faecium is a common cause of hospital-acquired infections.
- Monitoring resistance patterns is crucial for effective treatment strategies.
Purpose:
- To investigate the antibiotic susceptibility and resistance patterns of Enterococcus faecium isolates.
- To compare resistance profiles between intrahospitalary and extrahospitalary strains.
- To assess the prevalence of vancomycin resistance in E. faecium.
Summary:
- A total of 637 E. faecium isolates from urine, blood, and wound swabs (2004-2010) were analyzed using the WIDER I system.
- High susceptibility rates were observed for linezolid (100%) and vancomycin (99.46%).
- Significant resistance to aminoglycosides (41.41-73.55%) was noted, along with six vancomycin-resistant isolates (five intrahospitalary, one extrahospitalary).
Impact:
- Findings highlight the critical need for vigilant monitoring and control of vancomycin resistance in E. faecium.
- The study provides valuable data for guiding empirical antibiotic therapy and infection control measures.
- Understanding local resistance trends is essential for optimizing patient outcomes and preventing treatment failures.
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