Ampicillin-resistant Haemophilus influenzae. 2. Therapeutic considerations
Abstract:
The increasing incidence of Haemophilus influenzae resistant to ampicillin has clinical implications not only for pediatricians but also for family physicians, because the bacterium is recognized more frequently as the etiologic agent for diseases in adults as well as in young children. Ampicillin is no longer the automatic choice for treatment of patients thought to have life-threatening H influenzae disease, and empiric treatment of otitis media must be reexamined. Chloramphenicol, as well as ampicillin, must be considered for the treatment of meningitis and other serious systemic H influenzae infections. Once the infective organism has been isolated and tested for resistance, ampicillin alone may be used if indicated or desired. Alternatives to ampicillin for middle ear infection are trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra), erythromycin-sulfonamide (Pediazole), and cefaclor (Ceclor). Isolation and susceptibility tests are seldom done because they necessitate tympanocentesis.
Insights
Increasing ampicillin resistance in Haemophilus influenzae impacts pediatric and family medicine. Treatment guidelines for serious infections and otitis media require reevaluation due to rising resistance.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Pharmacy
Background:
- Rising incidence of ampicillin-resistant Haemophilus influenzae presents significant clinical challenges.
- Haemophilus influenzae is a frequent cause of both pediatric and adult infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the clinical implications of ampicillin resistance in Haemophilus influenzae.
- To reevaluate current treatment strategies for H. influenzae infections, including otitis media and serious systemic diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and analysis of clinical implications.
- Discussion of alternative antibiotic therapies based on susceptibility testing.
Main Results:
- Ampicillin is no longer the first-line empirical treatment for life-threatening H. influenzae infections.
- Chloramphenicol is a viable option for severe infections like meningitis.
- Alternative antibiotics for otitis media include trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, erythromycin-sulfonamide, and cefaclor.
Conclusions:
- Treatment protocols for H. influenzae infections must adapt to increasing ampicillin resistance.
- Susceptibility testing is crucial for guiding appropriate antibiotic selection.
- Reconsideration of empiric otitis media treatment is necessary.
Related Concept Videos
Antibiotic Selection
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Atypical Pneumonia
Mechanism of Antibiotic Resistance in MRSA
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
Bacterial Meningitis II: Pathophysiology


