Antimicrobial Resistance with Streptococcus pneumoniae in the United States, 1997-98
Author Information
Author(s): Gary V. Doern, Angela B. Brueggemann, Holly Huynh, Elizabeth Wingert, Paul Rhomberg
Primary Institution: University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
Hypothesis
What are the rates of antimicrobial resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae across U.S. medical centers?
Conclusion
The study found that the overall rate of penicillin resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae was 29.5%, with significant increases in resistance rates observed over three years.
Supporting Evidence
- Among 1,601 isolates, 29.5% showed resistance to penicillin.
- Multidrug resistance was observed in 16.0% of isolates.
- Resistance rates increased significantly in 19 of 24 centers compared to a previous study.
Takeaway
Doctors found that many germs causing pneumonia are becoming harder to treat with common medicines, which is a big problem for sick people.
Methodology
The study involved collecting and analyzing 1,601 clinical isolates of Streptococcus pneumoniae from 34 U.S. medical centers using standardized testing methods.
Limitations
The study did not determine resistance rates for several cephalosporins due to lack of NCCLS breakpoints.
Participant Demographics
Isolates were collected from patients across various age groups and healthcare settings, with a focus on children under 5 years old.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website