Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE)

Definition

CRE refers to a group of bacteria that have become resistant to carbapenem antibiotics, which are often used as a last resort for treating infections. This resistance makes CRE infections difficult to treat and can lead to severe illness or even death.

Related terms

Antibiotic resistance:

This term refers to the ability of bacteria or other microorganisms to resist the effects of antibiotics, making infections caused by these organisms more difficult to treat.

Superbugs: Superbugs are strains of bacteria that have developed resistance to multiple types of antibiotics, making them highly dangerous and difficult to control.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA):

MRSA is a type of staph infection that has become resistant to many commonly used antibiotics, posing a significant threat in healthcare settings.