Verbreitung multiresistenter Erreger

Abstract

Bacteria become multiply resistant to antibiotics by acquiring mobile genetic elements (MGEs) carrying antibiotic resistance genes and by resistance mutations. The spread of resistance is due to clonal dissemination of resistant strains and to further horizontal gene transfer. Particular significance attaches to epidemic methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA, clonal dissemination), vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE) with the "CC17" subpopulation specifically adapted to the hospital setting and Escherichia coli with extended-spectrum beta lactamases (ESBL). The spread of this resistance can be limited only by efficient hygiene measures and rational use of antibiotics. © 2007 Springer Medizin Verlag.