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Isolation and Identification of Waterborne Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria and Molecular Characterization of their Antibiotic Resistance Genes
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Agents of Last Resort: Polymyxin Resistance

Keith S Kaye1, Jason M Pogue2, Thien B Tran3

  • 1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Detroit Medical Center, Wayne State University, 3990 John R, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.

Infectious Disease Clinics of North America
|May 22, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Polymyxin resistance poses a significant public health risk, as these antibiotics are crucial for treating multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections. Strategies like understanding resistance mechanisms and optimizing dosing can help limit the spread of polymyxin resistance.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Polymyxins are last-line antibiotics for treating multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections.
  • The emergence and spread of polymyxin resistance is a critical global health concern.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the importance of understanding polymyxin resistance.
  • To emphasize the need for effective strategies to combat polymyxin resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current knowledge on polymyxin resistance mechanisms.
  • Analysis of risk factors associated with polymyxin resistance.
  • Discussion of infection prevention and stewardship strategies.
  • Evaluation of polymyxin dosing optimization, including combination therapies.

Main Results:

  • Polymyxin resistance is a growing threat due to the critical role of polymyxins as last-resort antibiotics.
  • Understanding resistance mechanisms and risk factors is essential.
  • Implementing infection control and optimizing antibiotic use are key interventions.

Conclusions:

  • A multifaceted approach is required to combat polymyxin resistance.
  • Improved understanding, strategic interventions, and optimized therapeutic regimens are crucial for limiting the dissemination of polymyxin-resistant pathogens.
Keywords:
ColistinGram-negativePolymyxin BPolymyxinsResistance

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