Resistance of Streptococcus Pneumoniae to Macrolides in Iran

Shervin Shokouhi1,2, Ilad Alavi Darazam1,2, Atousa Yazdanpanah1

  • 1Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Tanaffos
|May 23, 2020
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Antimicrobial resistance of Streptococcus pneumoniae to macrolides in Iran is significant, with nearly 50% of cases showing resistance. Understanding resistance mechanisms is crucial before prescribing macrolides.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Antimicrobial resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae is evolving.
  • Macrolide antibiotic use is increasing globally.
  • Comprehensive data on macrolide resistance in S. pneumoniae in Iran is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To estimate the prevalence and patterns of macrolide resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae in Iran.
  • To synthesize existing research on S. pneumoniae macrolide resistance in the Iranian context.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of studies published between 2000 and 2017.
  • Searched multiple databases for relevant articles on S. pneumoniae macrolide resistance in Iran.
  • Analyzed data from 25 retrieved articles encompassing 2723 cases.

Main Results:

  • The overall mean macrolide resistance rate in S. pneumoniae was 48.43% (95% CI: 38.8-57.9%).
  • Common resistance mechanisms identified include ribosomal methylation (ermB mutation), dual resistance, and efflux pumps.
  • Resistance rates varied across different Iranian cities.

Conclusions:

  • Macrolide resistance in S. pneumoniae is a considerable public health concern in Iran.
  • Empirical use of macrolides for S. pneumoniae infections is not recommended without susceptibility testing.
  • Higher doses of macrolides may be ineffective due to prevalent resistance mechanisms.