Surveillance of Antibiotic Resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae
Author Information
Author(s): David C.E. Speller, Alan P. Johnson, Barry D. Cookson, Pauline Waight, Robert C. George
Primary Institution: Central Public Health Laboratory
Hypothesis
What are the trends in antibiotic resistance among Streptococcus pneumoniae in England and Wales?
Conclusion
There has been a significant increase in resistance to penicillin and erythromycin among Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates over the past six years.
Supporting Evidence
- Resistance to penicillin increased from 0.3% in 1989 to 2.5% in 1994.
- Resistance to erythromycin rose from 3.3% in 1989 to 11.2% in 1994.
- Resistance was significantly more common among younger patients.
Takeaway
The study shows that more germs are becoming resistant to antibiotics, which means they are harder to treat.
Methodology
The study analyzed antimicrobial susceptibility test results from over 2,500 isolates of Streptococcus pneumoniae collected over six years.
Potential Biases
There may be bias in reporting resistance due to differences in laboratory practices.
Limitations
The methods for testing resistance are not standardized across all laboratories.
Participant Demographics
Isolates were collected from patients with bacteremia or meningitis, with a focus on younger age groups.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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