Confronting multidrug resistance: a role for each of us

Article Abstract:

The development of multidrug resistance by microorganisms is becoming a major problem in the treatment of diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria. Many microorganisms other than those that cause tuberculosis and malaria are also developing multidrug resistance. After the introduction of penicillin, doctors found that bacteria could become resistant to this drug. This resistance was caused by genetic changes that enabled the bacteria to destroy penicillin. The gene enabling the destruction of penicillin was on a separate piece of DNA. This piece of DNA could be transferred easily to other bacteria. Multidrug resistance is characterized by resistance to many different antibiotics. Various measures can be taken to combat multidrug resistance, including more selective use of antibiotics for shorter periods of time and better patient compliance when antibiotics are prescribed.

Column, Causes of

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Class Restriction of Cephalosporin Use to Control Total Cephalosporin Resistance in Nosocomial Klebsiella

Article Abstract:

Restricting the use of cephalosporin antibiotics to appropriate patients may reduce the incidence of antibiotic-resistant Klebsiella infections in the hospital. Cephalosporins are powerful antibiotics, but overuse encourages the growth of drug-resistant organisms. Researchers instituted a cephalosporin policy in a 500-bed urban hospital, restricting use of the drugs to pediatric infections, surgical prophylaxis, and serious infections. Within one year, cephalosporin use fell 80% and ceftaxidime-resistant Klebsiella infections fell 44%, compared to the previous year. Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections resistant to imipenem therapy increased, but other drugs are effective against this hospital-acquired infection.

Drug therapy, Nosocomial infections, Cross infection, Klebsiella, Cephalosporins

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Antibiotic Resistance-Squeezing the Balloon?

Article Abstract:

Increased information on which antibiotics are most useful for specific infections in specific patients may help prevent antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Antibiotic resistance is usually attributed to excessive use of specific antibiotics. When one class of antibiotics is used for many infections, bacteria are bound to become resistant to it. This can be prevented by using many different antibiotics, which could be tailored to the individual patient. Physicians should consult with infectious disease specialists in order to choose the best antibiotic. Computerized information systems might also help.

Editorial

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