About this Research Topic

Background

Increasing carbapenem resistance in Enterobacterales poses a threat to public health. In recent decades, this increase in carbapenem resistance has been caused by the global dissemination of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE). CPE infections have been reported worldwide, with varying occurrence rates in different regions. Although certain traditionally used antibiotics, such as amikacin, polymyxins, tigecycline, and fosfomycin, may remain effective against some CPE, their clinical use is limited owing to adverse effects, including renal toxicity, tissue penetration, or the requirement for combination treatment. Managing infections caused by CPE can pose a challenge, particularly for NDM-producers, as treatment options are restricted. Enhanced education and awareness among healthcare workers, patients, and the general public play a vital role in preventing the transmission of CPE.

Improved surveillance and monitoring systems have aided in identifying trends and tracking the spread of these infections. Diagnosing CPE infections is crucial for prompt and appropriate treatment. Recent advances in methods for identifying CPE include phenotypic, biochemical immunochromatographic, proteomic, and molecular-based methods. Early identification to implement appropriate infection control measures and initiate targeted therapies. Dealing with infections resulting from CPE can be difficult due to the limited treatment options available. Therefore, alternative approaches such as combination therapy or employing newer antimicrobial agents may become imperative. Preventing the spread of CPE infections is crucial in both healthcare facilities and the community. A multidisciplinary approach involving infectious disease specialists and clinical microbiologists helps tailor treatment regimens.

The research aims to understand the epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies related to CPE infections. By delving into the mechanisms behind carbapenemase production, identifying possible risk factors for transmission, and exploring novel therapeutic approaches, this research contributes to combating the growing threat posed by these multidrug-resistant bacteria. Furthermore, it highlights the significance of infection control measures and the importance of maintaining the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment options.

With this collection, we aim to bring together multidisciplinary research to increase our understanding of CFE infections and to inform clinical practice and policy decision-making. The Research Topic will contribute to evidence-based guidelines for prescribing antibiotics for CPE infections, improving patient safety and health outcomes.

Topic Editor Stefan Arama received financial support from Alfasigma Romania SRL, Sanofi Romania SRL, WECO T.M.C. SRL, and EWOPHARMA ROMANIA SRL. The other Topic Editors declare no competing interests.

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Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Editorial
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: carbapenem, resistance, epidemiology, infection, multidrug-resistant, antimicrobial agents, mechanisms

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