State of the Management of Infections Caused by Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Organisms

Abstract

In the past decade, the prevalence of multidrug-resistant gram-negative (MDR-GN) bacterial infections has increased significantly, leading to higher rates of morbidity and mortality. Treating these infections poses numerous challenges, particularly when selecting appropriate empiric therapy for critically ill patients for whom the margin for error is low. Fortunately, the availability of new therapies has improved the treatment landscape, offering safer and more effective options. However, there remains a need to establish and implement optimal clinical and therapeutic approaches for managing these infections. Here, we review strategies for identifying patients at risk for MDR-GN infections, propose a framework for the choice of empiric and definitive treatment, and explore effective multidisciplinary approaches to managing patients in the hospital while ensuring a safe transition to outpatient settings.

Keywords: gram-negative; multidrug resistance.