Penicillinase-producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolated in Surabaya

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Penicillinase-producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae (PPNG) emerged in neighboring countries in 1976.
• The emergence of antibiotic resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae poses a significant public health threat.
• Understanding the geographical spread and characteristics of resistant strains is crucial for effective treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the initial isolation and identification of PPNG strains in Indonesia.
• To characterize the penicillin G resistance levels of these early Indonesian PPNG isolates.

Main Methods:

• Isolation and identification of Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains from patients with gonococcal urethritis.
• Determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of penicillin G for the isolated strains.

Main Results:

• PPNG strains were first detected in Indonesia in 1980.
• Three male patients in Surabaya were identified with gonococcal urethritis caused by PPNG.
• The minimum inhibitory concentration of penicillin G for all three strains was 12.5 microgram/ml, indicating resistance.

Conclusions:

• The identification of PPNG in Indonesia in 1980 marked a significant development in the epidemiology of gonorrhea in the region.
• The observed penicillin G resistance highlights the need for ongoing surveillance and adaptation of treatment guidelines for gonorrhea.