ESKAPE

ESKAPE is an acronym that represents a group of bacteria that are the leading cause of nosocomial infections and are resistant to a number of antibiotics. The acronym stands for Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species.

Overview

ESKAPE pathogens are a group of bacteria that have developed resistance to multiple types of antibiotics. They are a significant cause of nosocomial infections, which are infections that are acquired in hospitals or other healthcare settings. These bacteria are particularly dangerous because they can survive in a hospital environment and are resistant to disinfectants.

ESKAPE Pathogens

Enterococcus faecium

Enterococcus faecium is a bacterium that is commonly found in the human gut. However, it can cause serious infections if it enters the bloodstream, urinary tract, or surgical wounds. It is resistant to many antibiotics, including vancomycin.

Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium that can cause a variety of infections, from minor skin infections to serious conditions like pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis. Some strains of this bacterium, known as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), are resistant to many antibiotics.

Klebsiella pneumoniae

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a bacterium that can cause a range of infections, including pneumonia, bloodstream infections, wound or surgical site infections, and meningitis. It is often resistant to multiple antibiotics.

Acinetobacter baumannii

Acinetobacter baumannii is a bacterium that can cause serious infections in people with weakened immune systems, and it is often resistant to multiple antibiotics. It can survive on surfaces for a long time, making it a significant concern in healthcare settings.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a bacterium that can cause a variety of infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. It is resistant to many antibiotics and is known for its ability to survive in harsh conditions.

Enterobacter species

Enterobacter species are a group of bacteria that can cause a variety of infections, particularly in the urinary tract, respiratory tract, and bloodstream. They are often resistant to multiple antibiotics.

See Also

• Antibiotic resistance
• Nosocomial infections
• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

ESKAPE Resources
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