Treatment of infections caused by carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae

Abstract

Treatment of infections caused by carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) is currently one of the most important challenges of infectious diseases. The available information is based on in vitro studies, some animal model data and a few case studies and retrospective cohorts; appropriate data are lacking or are very scarce for some old antibiotics that are still occasionally used. Because of the heterogeneity in clinical situations, in specific carbapenemases and in the susceptibility of isolates, individualized treatment decisions must usually be made. Here we review the different antibiotics that might be useful for treating infections caused by CPE.

Keywords: Antimicrobial resistance; Antimicrobial therapy; Bacteriemias; Carbapenemasas; Carbapenemases; Enterobacteriaceae Bloodstream infections; Enterobacterias; Multidrug resistance; Multirresistencia; Resistencia a antimicrobianos; Tratamiento antimicrobiano.