Epidemiological characteristics and antibiotic resistance mechanisms of Streptococcus pneumoniae: An updated review

Lifeng Li1, Jiayue Ma2, Zengyuan Yu3

  • 1Henan International Joint Laboratory of Children's Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China; Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.

Microbiological Research
|October 16, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) have reduced infections but led to serotype replacement. Streptococcus pneumoniae also shows increasing antibiotic resistance, complicating treatment and spread prevention.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Epidemiology
  • Vaccinology

Background:

  • Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) causes severe diseases like pneumonia and meningitis.
  • Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) are crucial for disease control.
  • Antibiotic resistance in S. pneumoniae is a growing global health concern.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review S. pneumoniae serotype distribution and epidemiology in the PCV era.
  • To summarize antibiotic resistance mechanisms of S. pneumoniae.
  • To inform clinical treatment and control of resistant strains.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies on S. pneumoniae.
  • Analysis of serotype distribution and epidemiological trends.
  • Examination of molecular mechanisms of antibiotic resistance.

Main Results:

  • PCVs have altered S. pneumoniae serotype prevalence, impacting vaccine effectiveness.
  • S. pneumoniae exhibits resistance to multiple antibiotics, including penicillin and macrolides.
  • Emerging genetic and molecular mechanisms contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding evolving serotype and resistance patterns is vital for effective pneumococcal disease management.
  • Continued surveillance and research are necessary to combat antibiotic resistance in S. pneumoniae.
  • This review aids in clinical decision-making and preventing the spread of resistant bacteria.

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