Inducible Clindamycin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Strains in Africa: A Systematic Review

Muluneh Assefa1

  • 1Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O. Box 196, Gondar, Ethiopia.

Abstract

Insights

Inducible clindamycin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus is a growing concern in Africa, affecting nearly 20% of isolates. This resistance is particularly high in MRSA strains, necessitating urgent screening and judicious antibiotic use.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Clindamycin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus is a significant public health issue in Africa.
  • The increasing prevalence of inducible clindamycin resistance (iMLSB) in S. aureus strains poses a therapeutic challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of inducible clindamycin resistance in S. aureus isolates across Africa.
  • To identify the common resistance genes associated with inducible clindamycin resistance in S. aureus.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review of qualitative studies was conducted.
  • Electronic databases (PubMed, Google Scholar) were searched for relevant articles published before 2021.
  • Data from 22 eligible studies, encompassing 3064 S. aureus isolates, were extracted and analyzed.

Main Results:

  • The overall prevalence of inducible clindamycin resistance in S. aureus was 19.8%.
  • Inducible clindamycin resistance was more common in Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains (26.8%) compared to Methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) strains.
  • Prevalence varied significantly by country, with Egypt, Libya, and Uganda reporting high rates. Common resistance genes identified include ermA, ermC, and msrA.

Conclusions:

  • Africa exhibits a high prevalence of inducible clindamycin resistance in S. aureus, including MRSA.
  • Urgent measures are needed, including regular screening, rational clindamycin use, and molecular characterization of resistance genes.