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Vancomycin-resistant enterococci. Mechanism and clinical relevance
1Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Infectious Disease Clinics of North America
|January 9, 1998
Summary
Vancomycin-resistant enterococci are a growing public health concern in the US, causing significant illness. Limited treatment options and high control costs necessitate urgent strategies to combat these resistant bacteria.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) have disseminated widely across the United States.
- These multidrug-resistant organisms pose a significant threat to patient health.
- The prevalence of VRE infections is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of VRE epidemiology and resistance mechanisms.
- To highlight the clinical challenges and economic impact of VRE infections.
- To emphasize the need for enhanced infection control measures.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on vancomycin resistance in enterococci.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on VRE spread in healthcare settings.
- Synthesis of information on treatment strategies and infection control practices.
Main Results:
- Glycopeptide resistance mechanisms in enterococci are largely understood.
- VRE infections are linked to considerable patient morbidity.
- Effective control of VRE spread demands significant resources and incurs high costs.
Conclusions:
- The widespread prevalence of VRE in the US requires continued vigilance.
- Limited therapeutic options underscore the importance of understanding resistance.
- Substantial morbidity and economic burden necessitate improved prevention and control efforts.