Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE)

Definition

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) are a group of Gram-negative bacteria that have developed resistance to carbapenem antibiotics. These bacteria are known for causing severe infections and being difficult to treat due to their multidrug resistance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CRE can produce enzymes like carbapenemases that break down carbapenem antibiotics, rendering them ineffective.
2. Infections caused by CRE are associated with high mortality rates, especially in hospitalized or immunocompromised patients.
3. CRE can spread through person-to-person contact or via contaminated surfaces, making infection control measures crucial in healthcare settings.
4. Testing for CRE involves molecular methods like PCR to detect the presence of carbapenemase genes.
5. The treatment options for CRE infections are limited and often require the use of less effective or more toxic antibiotics.

Related terms

Antimicrobial Resistance:

The ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of an antimicrobial agent that once could successfully treat the infection.

Carbapenems:

A class of highly effective beta-lactam antibiotics used as a last resort for bacterial infections.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction):

A laboratory technique used to amplify DNA sequences, useful for detecting specific genetic markers associated with drug resistance.