Year: 2008
Type: article
Abstract: Resistance of Gram negative bacilli to commonly used antibiotics is commonplace in the Asia-Pacific region. In general, rates of resistance are highest in India and some parts of China and lowest in Australia and New Zealand. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterobacter cloacae are significant nosocomial pathogens in the region. Rates of ESBL production in some species is as high as 80% in some institutions. Community-onset ESBL producing Escherichia coli is becoming evident in certain geographic regions such as Thailand, India and some parts of Australia. CTX-M-15 has been described in this scenario in India. There are reports of KPC-producing organisms in China, but thus far this resistance mechanism has not been described elsewhere in Asia/Pacific. Metallo-beta-lactamase producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii and Enterobacteriaceae are well described in the Asia-Pacific region. Carbapenem resistant A. baumannii is a particularly problematic pathogen in some ICUs. Significant issues with regards to the high prevalence of antibiotic resistant Gram negative bacteria in the region include over the counter availability of antibiotics in some countries, agricultural use of antibiotics and suboptimal infection control. Attention to these issues is essential to forestall the onset and spread of polymyxin resistance in the region.
Author: D.L. Paterson
Institution: The University of Queensland
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Medicine
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,900
OpenAlex ID: W1990925625