title: Clinical implications of resistance in the management of respiratory tract infections.
abstract: Antibiotic resistance among the three major respiratory pathogens (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis) has increased dramatically over the past 15 years, around the world. With S pneumoniae, penicillin resistance is reported in almost a quarter of isolates, with multiple resistance an increasing problem. The major concern with H influenzae is ampicillin resistance, mediated through two different mechanisms. In the case of M catarrhalis, beta-lactamase production is almost universal, although resistance to other antibiotics is rare. The increasing prevalence of resistance underscores the need for new effective antibiotics. The new quinolones have a spectrum of activity that parallels the range of common respiratory pathogens.
authors: Department of Medicine, Hospital Mutua de Terassa, University of Barcelona, Spain. jgarau@retemail.es
authors: J
authors: J
authors: Garau
mesh_terms: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004352:Drug Resistance, Microbial; D006193:Haemophilus influenzae / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D001936:Moraxella catarrhalis / Q000187:drug effects; D012141:Respiratory Tract Infections / Q000188:drug therapy*; D013296:Streptococcus pneumoniae / Q000187:drug effects
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents