Ampicillin-resistant and vancomycin-susceptible

Area of Science:

• Medical Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Clinical Pharmacy

Background:

• Enterococcus faecium is a common bacterium that can cause serious infections like bacteremia.
• Ampicillin-resistant and vancomycin-susceptible E. faecium (EfARSV) bacteremia is a growing concern with a high mortality rate.
• The optimal treatment strategy for EfARSV bacteremia is not well-established.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the key aspects of EfARSV bacteremia.
• To discuss current treatment options and their limitations.
• To highlight the need for further research.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search on PubMed.
• Inclusion of studies published up to November 15, 2022.
• Review focused on microbiology, resistance, epidemiology, and treatment.

Main Results:

• EfARSV bacteremia is associated with high mortality, though causality is debated.
• EfARSV is a difficult-to-treat pathogen due to its resistance patterns.
• Glycopeptides, linezolid, and daptomycin are treatment options, but daptomycin use is controversial.

Conclusions:

• Despite increased incidence and mortality, EfARSV bacteremia requires more rigorous studies.
• Current clinical evidence on treatment is limited and has significant limitations.
• Further well-designed studies are essential to guide effective treatment strategies.