Intrinsic and acquired resistance mechanisms in enterococcus.
Enterococci have the potential for resistance to virtually all clinically useful antibiotics. Their emergence as important nosocomial pathogens has coincided with increased expression of antimicrobial resistance by members of the genus. The mechanisms underlying antibiotic resistance in enterococci may be intrinsic to the species or acquired through mutation of intrinsic genes or horizontal exchange of genetic material encoding resistance determinants. This paper reviews the antibiotic resistance mechanisms in Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis and discusses treatment options.
Department of Medicine, Lifespan/Rhode Island Hospital and Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
Brian L
BL
Hollenbeck
Louis B
LB
Rice
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000382:microbiology; D024881:Drug Resistance, Bacterial; D013293:Enterococcus faecalis / Q000187:drug effects*; D016984:Enterococcus faecium / Q000187:drug effects*; D016908:Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections / Q000382:microbiology; D006801:Humans
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents