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Showing papers in "Expert Review of Anti-infective Therapy in 2017"


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Although there have been concerns regarding the efficacy and the possible side effects of the off-label use of CADs as antivirals, they seem to represent a promising starting point for the development of broad-spectrum antiviral strategies.
Abstract: Introduction: Emerging and reemerging viral infections represent a major concern for human and veterinary public health and there is an urgent need for the development of broad-spectrum antivirals....

109 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The increased frequency of reports on carbapenemases in Latin America and the Caribbean shows that they have successfully spread and have even become endemic in some countries.
Abstract: Introduction: Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas spp., and Acinetobacter spp. infections are major causes of morbidity and mortality, especially due to the emergence and spread of β-lactamases. Carbapenemases, which are β-lactamases with the capacity to hydrolyze or inactivate carbapenems, have become a serious concern as they have the largest hydrolytic spectrum and therefore limit the utility of most β-lactam antibiotics.Areas covered: Here, we present an update of the current status of carbapenemases in Latin America and the Caribbean.Expert commentary: The increased frequency of reports on carbapenemases in Latin America and the Caribbean shows that they have successfully spread and have even become endemic in some countries. Countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, and Mexico account for the majority of these reports. Early suspicion and detection along with implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs in all healthcare settings are crucial for the control and prevention of carbape...

85 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This review will explore the issues that need to be considered in developing performance standards for anti-biofilm therapeutics and provide a rationale for the need to standardize models/methods that are clinically relevant.
Abstract: Introduction: The concept of biofilms in human health and disease is now widely accepted as cause of chronic infection. Typically, biofilms show remarkable tolerance to many forms of treatments and the host immune response. This has led to vast increase in research to identify new (and sometimes old) anti-biofilm strategies that demonstrate effectiveness against these tolerant phenotypes.Areas covered: Unfortunately, a standardized methodological approach of biofilm models has not been adopted leading to a large disparity between testing conditions. This has made it almost impossible to compare data across multiple laboratories, leaving large gaps in the evidence. Furthermore, many biofilm models testing anti-biofilm strategies aimed at the medical arena have not considered the matter of relevance to an intended application. This may explain why some in vitro models based on methodological designs that do not consider relevance to an intended application fail when applied in vivo at the clinical l...

82 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The addition of iodide has been shown to improve the performance of aPDT in several animal models of localized infection, and KI is non-toxic and is an approved drug for antifungal therapy, so its transition to clinical use in aPDt should be straightforward.
Abstract: Introduction: Antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation (aPDI) involves the use of non-toxic dyes excited with visible light to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can destroy all classes of microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses. Selectivity of killing microbes over host mammalian cells allows this approach (antimicrobial photodynamic therapy, aPDT) to be used in vivo as an alternative therapeutic approach for localized infections especially those that are drug-resistant.Areas covered: We have discovered that aPDI can be potentiated (up to 6 logs of extra killing) by the addition of simple inorganic salts. The most powerful and versatile salt is potassium iodide, but potassium bromide, sodium thiocyanate, sodium azide and sodium nitrite also show potentiation. The mechanism of potentiation with iodide is likely to be singlet oxygen addition to iodide to form iodine radicals, hydrogen peroxide and molecular iodine. Another mechanism involves two-electron oxidation of...

76 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Considering that critically-ill patients are highly vulnerable and likely to experience antibiotic underexposure, and because effective initial treatment is a key determinant of clinical outcome, this work supports the use of a target of 100%T > 4xMIC, which could not only maximize efficacy but also minimize emergence of resistance.
Abstract: Introduction: The pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic index determining β-lactam activity is the percentage of the dosing interval (%T) during which their free serum concentration remains above a criti

75 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This article covers MDRGN epidemiology, with a specific focus on risk factors for harbouring infections sustained by extended-spectrum-Beta-lactamase (ESBL), carbapenem resistant Enterobacteriacae (CRE), MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa and MDR Acinetobacter baumanii, and proposes an algorithm for the choice of empiric treatment when a MDR GN infection is suspected.
Abstract: Introduction: The isolation of multi-drug-resistant gram-negative (MDRGN) pathogens has progressively increased worldwide and has been associated with important delays in the prescription of an adequate antibiotic treatment, resulting in increased mortality rates. Patient’s stratification for MDRGN infections to optimize the prescription of an adequate empiric antimicrobial regimen is crucial.Areas covered: This article covers MDRGN epidemiology, with a specific focus on risk factors for harbouring infections sustained by extended-spectrum-Beta-lactamase (ESBL), carbapenem resistant Enterobacteriacae (CRE), MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa and MDR Acinetobacter baumanii. Moreover, we will propose an algorithm for the choice of empiric treatment when a MDRGN infection is suspected.Expert commentary: Although in clinical practice, a patient’s stratification represents a challenge, whenever a MDRGN pathogen is suspected broad-spectrum, combination empiric treatment should be promptly started, looking for a...

69 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Prescribing of combination antibiotics, penicillins and diagnosis of oral dental, genitourinary and ear, nose and throat infections were important predictors for NSTG compliance.
Abstract: Background: Sub-optimal antibiotic prescribing remains a public health concern in Namibia. The objective was to determine the level and predictors of compliance to guidelines in the prescribing of ...

67 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This manuscript will provide background information on Pneumocystis pneumonia, from radiological to non-microbiological and microbiological investigations and recommendations on prophylactic and therapeutic management will be covered.
Abstract: Introduction: Pneumocystis jirovecii is a ubiquitous fungus, which causes pneumonia in humans. Diagnosis was hampered by the inability to culture the organism, and based on microscopic examination of respiratory samples or clinical presentation. New assays can assist in the diagnosis and even aid with the emergence of resistant infections. Areas covered: This manuscript will provide background information on Pneumocystis pneumonia (PcP). Diagnosis, from radiological to non-microbiological (e.g. Lactate dehydrogenase) and microbiological investigations (Microscopy, PCR, β-D-Glucan) will be discussed. Recommendations on prophylactic and therapeutic management will be covered. Expert commentary: PcP diagnosis using microscopy is far from optimal and false negatives will occur. With an incidence of 1% or less, the pre-test probability of not having PcP is 99% and testing is suited to excluding disease. Microscopy provides a high degree of diagnostic confidence but it is not infallible, and its lower sensitivity limits its application. Newer diagnostics (PCR, β-D-Glucan) can aid management and improve performance when testing less invasive specimens, such as upper respiratory samples or blood, alleviating clinical pressure. Combination testing may allow PcP to be both diagnosed and excluded, and molecular testing can assist in the detection of emerging resistant PcP.

65 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Antimicrobial resistance among the five-species presented demonstrates a major, and increasing, deleterious impact seen in each of the key outcomes measured, which emphasise the growing problem of increasing antimicrobial resistance at a global level and the vital need for new antimicrobials.
Abstract: Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance has become a global problem. Many pathogens are becoming multidrug-resistant with the attendant increased risk of failure of standard therapies and the under-recognised outcomes such as increased morbidity, mortality, length of hospitalization and costs of treatment.Areas covered: We undertook a review of the literature using standard search engines including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and internet sources. Key search terms included antimicrobial resistance, antibiotic resistance, bacterial resistance, clinical outcomes, economic consequences, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus.Expert commentary: Antimicrobial resistance among the five-species presented demonstrates a major, and increasing, deleterious impact seen in each of the key outcomes measured. These negative changes, at a personal, health system and Societal levels, further emphasise the growing problem of increasing ...

60 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This review highlights epidemiology, pathogenesis, microbiological characteristics, clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges and treatment options of C. auris and special measures during an outbreak situation have also been reviewed.
Abstract: Introduction: Candida auris is a recently discovered, rapidly emerging fungal pathogen. Infections due to C. auris are hospital-acquired, multidrug resistant and associated with high mortality.Areas covered: This review highlights epidemiology, pathogenesis, microbiological characteristics, clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges and treatment options of C. auris infections. Infection prevention measures to prevent spread of C. auris and special measures during an outbreak situation have also been reviewed.Expert commentary: Rapid emergence of hospital onset C. auris is worrisome. Early diagnosis of C. auris is essential for better outcomes and the implementation of infection prevention measures. Lack of widespread awareness, absence of general availability of diagnostic testing methods, and limited options for treatment of C. auris infections make it a difficult-to-treat pathogen. Further studies are needed for better understanding of this emerging pathogen.

58 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The main issues discussed here are related to the public health burden of cervical cancer in sub-Saharan Africa and predictions for the coming decades, including molecular epidemiology and determinants of HPV infection in Africa, and promising prevention measures currently being evaluated in Africa.
Abstract: Introduction: Infections caused by high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) are responsible for 7.7% of cancers in developing countries, mainly cervical cancer. This disease is steadily increasing in sub-Saharan Africa, with more than 75,000 new cases and 50,000 deaths yearly, further increased by HIV infection.Areas covered: The current status of cervical cancer associated with HPV in sub-Saharan Africa has been systematically revised. The main issues discussed here are related to the public health burden of cervical cancer in sub-Saharan Africa and predictions for the coming decades, including molecular epidemiology and determinants of HPV infection in Africa, and promising prevention measures currently being evaluated in Africa.Expert commentary: By the year 2030, cervical cancer will kill more than 443,000 women yearly worldwide, most of them in sub-Saharan Africa. The increase in the incidence of cervical cancer in Africa could counteract the progress made by African women in reducing maternal mo...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The pathophysiology of sepsis-associated encephalopathy and encephalitis involving blood-brain-barrier dysfunction and neuroinflammation caused by endothelial and microglial activation by endogenous or pathogen-derived compounds, hypoxia by impaired microvascular regulation and septic shock as well as imbalance of neurotransmitters is illustrated.
Abstract: Introduction: During the last two decades, septic encephalopathy (SE) was recognized as a clinically relevant problem with a high prevalence in patients at admission and during their hospital stay. SE is a condition associated with increased mortality and morbidity such as long-term cognitive impairment.Areas covered: This review illustrates the pathophysiology of sepsis-associated encephalopathy and encephalitis involving blood-brain-barrier dysfunction and neuroinflammation caused by endothelial and microglial activation by endogenous or pathogen-derived compounds, hypoxia by impaired microvascular regulation and septic shock as well as imbalance of neurotransmitters. The continuum between septic-embolic and septic-metastatic encephalitis and SE is underlined by histological findings. The options of technical examinations and biomarkers to diagnose SE are discussed together with established therapeutic options as well as current experimental approaches.Expert commentary: An outlook for clinician...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Clinicians should not only understand the reasons for the decline in antibiotic development that have resulted in the dry pipeline, but also the ongoing initiatives in place to build an appropriate supply to mend these challenges and bring new antibiotics to patients in need.
Abstract: Introduction: The combination of growing antimicrobial resistance with a dry pipeline has resulted in infections that can no longer be treated. Specific reasons have led to companies’ exit from the antibacterial space, however recent incentives are spurring interest to reinvigorate the pipeline.Areas covered: This article summarizes the available information on the discovery, developmental, and regulatory challenges in antibacterial development that have led to disinterest in the space, as well as ongoing incentives such as public-private partnerships and streamlined pathways to mend these challenges and bring new antibiotics to patients in need.Expert commentary: Clinicians should not only understand the reasons for the decline in antibiotic development that have resulted in the dry pipeline, but also the ongoing initiatives in place to build an appropriate supply. Doing so will result in greater appreciation and prudent use of these life-saving drugs when they become available.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In critically ill patients, at least as empirical approach, a combination therapy is a prudent choice when a MDR-PA strain is suspected, and in the meanwhile, useful options are represented by newly approved drugs, such as ceftolozane/tazobactam and ceftazidime/avibactam.
Abstract: Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) is one of the most important causes of healthcare-related infections among Gram-negative bacteria. The best therapeutic approach is controversial, especially for multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains as well as in the setting of most severe patients, such as in the intensive care unit (ICU).Areas covered: This article addresses several points. First, the main microbiological aspects of PA, focusing on its wide array of resistance mechanisms. Second, risk factors and the worse outcome linked to MDR-PA infection. Third, the pharmacological peculiarity of ICU patients, that makes the choice of a proper antimicrobial therapy difficult. Eventually, the current therapeutic options against MDR-PA are reviewed, taking into account the main variables that drive antimicrobial optimization in critically ill patients. Literature search was carried out using Pubmed and Web of Science.Expert commentary: Methodologically rigorous studies ...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: There is a need to have prospective and randomized clinical trials for the therapy of MERS-CoV, however, this strategy might be hampered by the sporadic cases outside the large hospital outbreaks.
Abstract: The Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is an important emerging respiratory pathogen. MERS-CoV resulted in multiple hospital outbreaks within and outside the Arabian Peninsula. The disease has a high case fatality rate, with the need for a therapeutic option. Areas covered: In this review, we provide an overview of the progress in the development of therapeutic strategies for MERS. We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Scopus, and Google Scholar, using the following terms: 'MERS', 'MERS-CoV', 'Middle East respiratory syndrome' in combination with 'treatment' or 'therapy'. Expert commentary: There are multiple agents tried in vitro and in vivo. None of these agents were used in large clinical studies. Available clinical studies are limited to the use of the combination of interferon and other agents. These clinical studies are based solely on case reports and case series. There are no prospective or randomized trials. There is a need to have prospective and randomized clinical trials for the therapy of MERS-CoV. However, this strategy might be hampered by the sporadic cases outside the large hospital outbreaks.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This review covers infections associated with craniotomy fixation devices, cranioplasties, external ventricular and lumbar drainages, internal shunts and neurostimulators and emphasizes extrapolating management strategies predominantly from orthopedic device-associated infections, where the concept is better established and clinically validated.
Abstract: Introduction: Neurosurgical devices are increasingly used. With it, neurosurgical device-related infections gain relevance. As biofilms are involved in implant-associated infections the diagnosis and treatment is challenging and requires specific anti-biofilm concepts and management algorithms.Areas covered: The literature concerning the management of neurosurgical device-associated infections is scarce and heterogeneous treatment concepts are discussed, but no standardized diagnostic and treatment procedures exist. Therefore, we emphasize extrapolating management strategies predominantly from orthopedic device-associated infections, where the concept is better established and clinically validated. This review covers infections associated with craniotomy fixation devices, cranioplasties, external ventricular and lumbar drainages, internal shunts and neurostimulators.Expert commentary: Sonication of the removed implants significantly improves microbiological diagnosis. A combined surgical and antim...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Pfmdr 1 has emerged as the central gene in P. falciparum ACT resistance, and unveiling situations of drug collateral sensitivity associated with specific pfmdr1 genetic variation will provide opportunities for personalized optimal therapy options.
Abstract: Introduction: Plasmodium falciparum, the deadly agent of malaria, is notorious for its capacity to develop drug resistance. Treatment failures of artemisinin therapy regimens (ACTc), the present mainstay, is emerging. The transporter coding pfmdr1 gene is a central node in this process, having been associated with in vitro and in vivo parasite response to a broad range of ACT antimalarials.Areas covered: The review covers the historical origins of the pfmdr1 discovery, followed by a detailed description of its sequence and expression characteristics, as well as the structural and functional characteristics of its coded transmembrane protein. pfmdr1 association with ACT drugs response in vivo and in vitro is thoroughly reviewed. A reference is made to significant compounds presently in the development pipeline.The literature search was focused on Pubmed based searches with occasional resource to edited books, World Health Organization documentation and conference reports for adding valuable details...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: There is an urgent need to refine the current diagnostic criteria to improve diagnosis, classification of disease severity and identify individuals in this population who are likely to progress to severe disease.
Abstract: Introduction: Changing dengue epidemiological trends have resulted in a shift in the disease burden to the adult population. Older adults suffer from poorer outcomes as compared to their younger counterparts, making clinical management of this sub-population particularly challenging.Areas covered: We present a review of the current literature on the changing epidemiology of dengue in the elderly, the atypical features of the clinical disease in this population with emphasis on severe disease presentations and challenges in the current management strategies.Expert commentary: Dengue in the elderly is an increasingly important yet greatly understudied area. There is an urgent need to refine the current diagnostic criteria to improve diagnosis, classification of disease severity and identify individuals in this population who are likely to progress to severe disease. Management strategies in this population would have to be adjusted to account for the increased number of co-morbidities. The role of t...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This work has suggested that Aminoglycoside breakpoints may need to be revised due to the increasing use of aminoglycosides as backbone antibiotics to treat severe infections by CRE isolates in critically ill patients.
Abstract: Introduction: The emergence of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) has brought aminoglycosides to the frontline since an aminoglycoside may be the only antimicrobial to which CRE isolates show in vitro susceptibility. The appropriateness of aminoglycoside-based therapies for severe infections by CRE is discussed considering the current breakpoints and recent pharmacokinetic (PK) studies in critically ill patients.Areas covered: Many aminoglycoside-susceptible CRE isolates present minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) at or slightly below the breakpoint of amikacin or gentamicin. However, recent PK studies with these aminoglycosides in critically ill have invariably shown that the PK/pharmacodynamic (PD) target is very unlikely attained even when high doses are administered, if the MICs are near the breakpoint.Expert commentary: While new antimicrobials are not widely available, the authors forecast an increasing use of aminoglycosides as backbone antibiotics against CRE isolates. Howe...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The study highlights the need to implement antimicrobial stewardship programmes, including educational activities, to promote the rational use of antimicrobials and monitor their use in PHC facilities in SA.
Abstract: Background: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global concern and a growing health crisis. Additionally, evidence has shown that non-compliance to treatment guidelines, especially...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: There is an urgent need to search for an effective anti-viral agent to treat infected individuals and emphasis was placed on organ impairment in dengue and management of elderly individuals with multiple medical problems.
Abstract: Introduction: Traditionally a disease mainly affecting the pediatric population, dengue burden has increased significantly in recent decades and adults with severe disease may become more common There is currently no effective anti-viral agent available for the treatment of dengue and supportive care is the mainstay of managementAreas covered: We present a review of current literature on dengue severity classification systems and the management of severe dengue in adults In particular, emphasis was placed on organ impairment in dengue and management of elderly individuals with multiple medical problemsExpert commentary: There is an urgent need to search for an effective anti-viral agent to treat infected individuals The commercial availability of a dengue vaccine in older children has provided optimism in reducing the disease burden but long term efficacy and safety are unknown The results from phase III trials of two new candidate vaccines are eagerly awaited

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Recent advances in biodegradable drug delivery scaffolds make this technology an attractive alternative to traditional techniques for orthopedic infection that require secondary operations for removal, and these strategies offer hope for future treatment of this difficult invasive disease.
Abstract: Introduction: Osteomyelitis, a common and debilitating invasive infection of bone, is a frequent complication following orthopedic surgery and causes pathologic destruction of skeletal tissues. Bon...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A historical perspective of the use of sera and IGs in humans as anti-infective agents (any viral, bacterial, parasitic infection), excluding immunodeficient patients, is presented from early development to the latest clinical studies.
Abstract: Introduction: Pooled human immunoglobulins (IGs) are prepared from plasma obtained from healthy donors as a concentrated antibody-containing solution. In addition, high-titer IGs (hyperimmune) agai...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: It is suggested that PCT level determination could be helpful in detecting meningitis, bacteremia and sepsis in children with FWAS and considering IBI, results showed high diagnostic accuracy for PCT.
Abstract: Introduction: The management of children with fever without apparent sources (FWAS) is difficult. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of procalcitonin (PCT) in detecting serious or...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This paper examines both challenges and opportunities associated with antifungal drug development and explores potential avenues to accelerate the development pipeline, including data sharing, surrogate endpoints, and the role of historical controls in clinical trials.
Abstract: Introduction: Invasive fungal infections represent an expanding threat to public health. The recent emergence of Candida auris, which is often resistant to existing antifungal agents and is associated with a high mortality rate, underscores the urgent need for novel drug development strategies.Areas covered: In this paper, we examine both challenges and opportunities associated with antifungal drug development and explore potential avenues to accelerate the development pipeline, including data sharing, surrogate endpoints, and the role of historical controls in clinical trials.Expert commentary: We review important lessons learned from the study of other rare diseases, including mitochondrial storage diseases and certain forms of cancer that may inform strategies to develop new antifungal agents while highlighting promising new compounds such as SCY-078 for the treatment of invasive fungal infections.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This review summarizes the diagnosis and first-line and alternative treatment and prophylaxis for Pneumocystis pneumonia in HIV-infected patients and whether resistance due to mutations within dihydropteroate synthase gene compromises treatment effectiveness remains controversial.
Abstract: Pneumocystis pneumonia is a potentially life-threatening pulmonary infection that occurs in immunocompromised individuals and HIV-infected patients with a low CD4 cell count. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole has been used as the first-line agent for treatment, but mutations within dihydropteroate synthase gene render potential resistance to sulfamide. Despite advances of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), Pneumocystis pneumonia continues to occur in HIV-infected patients with late presentation for cART or virological and immunological failure after receiving cART. Areas covered: This review summarizes the diagnosis and first-line and alternative treatment and prophylaxis for Pneumocystis pneumonia in HIV-infected patients. Articles for this review were identified through searching PubMed. Search terms included: 'Pneumocystis pneumonia', 'Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia', 'Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia', 'trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole', 'primaquine', 'trimetrexate', 'dapsone', 'pentamidine', 'atovaquone', 'echinocandins', 'human immunodeficiency virus infection', 'acquired immunodeficiency syndrome', 'resistance to sulfamide' and combinations of these terms. We limited the search to English language papers that were published between 1981 and March 2017. We screened all identified articles and cross-referenced studies from retrieved articles. Expert commentary: Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole will continue to be the first-line agent for Pneumocystis pneumonia given its cost, availability of both oral and parenteral formulations, and effectiveness or efficacy in both treatment and prophylaxis. Whether resistance due to mutations within dihydropteroate synthase gene compromises treatment effectiveness remains controversial. Continued search for effective alternatives with better safety profiles for Pneumocystis pneumonia is warranted.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: There is moderate evidence in support of the use of monotherapy for treating carbapenemase-producing Acinetobacter baumannii infections, however for septic shock patients, cancer patients and infections with an isolate with MIC in the upper limit of susceptibility combination therapy could be recommended.
Abstract: Introduction: The ongoing crisis and emergence of extensively-drug resistant (XDR) gram-negative pathogens in the nosocomial setting is worrisome. The limited armamentarium in combination with the ...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Although there are a limited number of randomized clinical studies addressing antimicrobial stewardship strategies in CAP, there is evidence that antibiotic stewardship initiatives can be securely applied, providing benefits to both healthcare systems and patients.
Abstract: Introduction: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) continues to be associated with significant mortality and morbidity. As with other infectious diseases, in recent years there has been a marked increase in resistance to the antibiotics commonly used against the pathogens that cause CAP. Antimicrobial stewardship denotes coordinated interventions to improve and measure the appropriate use of antibiotics by encouraging the selection of optimal drug regimens.Areas covered: Several elements can be applied to antibiotic stewardship strategies for CAP in order to maintain or improve patient outcomes. In this regard, antibiotic de-escalation, duration of antibiotic treatment, adherence to CAP guidelines recommendations about empirical treatment, and switching from intravenous to oral antibiotic therapy may each be relevant in this context. Antimicrobial stewardship strategies, such as prospective audit with intervention and feedback, clinical pathways, and dedicated multidisciplinary teams, that have incl...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Properly used and optimally dosed, once daily high dose tigecycline (HDT) should be considered preferred therapy for severe systemic infections and those due to MDR GNB pathogens.
Abstract: Introduction: Tigecycline has emerged as first line therapy for serious systemic infections due to important pathogens (except P. aeruginosa and Proteus sp.), including multi-drug resistant (MDR) a...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The yeast-to-hyphal transition (dimorphism) of the most common human pathogenic yeast Candida albicans remains in the focus of molecular and medical mycology.
Abstract: The yeast-to-hyphal transition (dimorphism) of the most common human pathogenic yeast Candida albicans remains in the focus of molecular and medical mycology [1–4]. Since our review on ‘C. albicans...