Introduction: Among the multidrug resistant pathogens, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL-E) or carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) are currently considered the main threat due to the scarcity of therapeutic options and their rapid spread around the globe. In addition to developing new antibiotics and stopping transmission, recent research has focused on 'decolonization' strategies to eradicate the carriage of ESBL-E/CPE before infection occurs. Areas covered: In this narrative review, we aim to describe the current evidence of decolonization strategies for ESBL-E or CPE intestinal carriage. We first define decolonization and highlight the issues related to the lack of standardized definitions, then we summarize the available data on the natural history of colonization. Finally, we review the strategies assessed over the past 10 years for ESBL and CPE decolonization: oral antibiotics, probiotics and more recently fecal microbiota transplantation. We conclude by presenting the risks and uncertainties associated with these strategies. Expert opinion: The evidence available today is too low to recommend decolonization strategies for ESBL-E or CPE in routine clinical practice. The potential increase of resistance and the impact of microbiome manipulation should not be underestimated. Some of these decolonization strategies may nevertheless be effective, at least in temporarily suppressing colonization, which could be useful for specific populations such as high-risk patients. Effectiveness and long-term effects must be properly assessed through well-designed randomized controlled trials.
Keywords: Decolonization; Enterobacteriaceae; carbapenemase; extended-spectrum beta-lactamase; fecal microbiota transplantation.