Current state and future directions for veterinary antimicrobial resistance research

Area of Science:

• One Health
• Veterinary Medicine
• Microbiology

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat across human, animal, plant, and environmental health sectors.
• Harmonization of antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) and antimicrobial resistance testing (ART) is crucial for consistent detection and reporting.
• Veterinary diagnostic stewardship, clinical outcomes research, and enhanced training are vital for improving antimicrobial use practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and describe current knowledge gaps in the literature concerning ART, AST, and their clinical or surveillance applications.
• To propose areas for future AMR research to address identified knowledge deficits.

Main Methods:

• Literature review to identify existing knowledge and gaps in ART and AST.
• Analysis of current practices in veterinary diagnostics and surveillance.
• Synthesis of information to guide future research directions.

Main Results:

• Significant knowledge gaps exist in the application and interpretation of ART and AST in veterinary medicine.
• Current surveillance and reporting practices require harmonization across One Health sectors.
• Limitations in genotypic ART methods for clinical veterinary practice have been noted.

Conclusions:

• Addressing identified knowledge gaps through targeted research is essential for combating AMR.
• Standardized ART and AST protocols are needed for effective AMR surveillance and control.
• Investment in veterinary laboratory stewardship and education is critical for responsible antimicrobial use.