Pathogens resistant to antimicrobial agents: epidemiology, molecular mechanisms, and clinical management.
Resistance to antimicrobial drugs is increasing at an alarming rate among both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Traditionally, bacteria resistant to multiple antimicrobial agents have been restricted to the nosocomial environment. A disturbing trend has been the recent emergence and spread of resistant pathogens and resistance traits in nursing homes, the community, as well as in hospitals. This article reviews the epidemiology, molecular mechanisms of resistance, and treatment options for pathogens resistant to antimicrobial drugs.
Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Box 3152, Durham, NC 27710, USA. kaye0001@mc.duke.edu
Keith S
KS
Kaye
John J
JJ
Engemann
Henry S
HS
Fraimow
Elias
E
Abrutyn
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001419:Bacteria / Q000235:genetics* / Q000472:pathogenicity; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000188:drug therapy; D024881:Drug Resistance, Bacterial / Q000235:genetics* / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents