Evolving patterns of resistance to respiratory pathogens in Canada

Can Respir J. 1999 Jan-Feb:6 Suppl A:27A-30A.

Abstract

Active surveillance of changing resistance patterns is difficult but important for rational therapeutic choices. In Canada, penicillin resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae has evolved more slowly than in other countries (in Europe and Israel rates exceed 50%). Currently, penicillin resistance is found in roughly 21% of Canadian isolates, and cross-resistance is becoming common. Beta-lactamase production is now found in approximately 28% of Haemophilus influenzae isolates, although more recently, rates over 30% have been found in some areas of Canada. In Moraxella catarrhalis, beta-lactamases are produced by 80% to 90% of bacteria, with resistance to trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole also found. To date, there have been only a few reports of resistance to the fluoroquinolones. The apparent increase in the rate of development of resistance and cross-resistance will lead to new therapeutic challenges.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology*
  • Canada
  • Drug Resistance, Microbial*
  • Haemophilus influenzae / drug effects
  • Haemophilus influenzae / isolation & purification
  • Humans
  • Moraxella catarrhalis / drug effects
  • Moraxella catarrhalis / isolation & purification
  • Respiratory Tract Infections / drug therapy*
  • Streptococcus pneumoniae / drug effects
  • Streptococcus pneumoniae / isolation & purification

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents