Detecting Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci in Monterrey, Mexico
Author Information
Author(s): L. Clifford McDonald, Luis R. Garza, William R. Jarvis
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
Can clinical laboratories in Monterrey, Mexico, effectively detect vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE)?
Conclusion
The study found that while laboratories can reliably detect high-level vancomycin resistance, many struggle with low-level resistance.
Supporting Evidence
- VRE infections have increased in the U.S. from 27% to 44% between 1989 and 1995.
- Laboratories in Monterrey had difficulty detecting low-level vancomycin resistance.
- Only two laboratories reported an antimicrobial use control program.
- Errors in vancomycin susceptibility testing were noted, with 23% of results being erroneous.
Takeaway
This study looked at how well hospitals in Monterrey can find a type of bacteria that is hard to treat. They found that while they can find the really resistant ones, they often miss the ones that are only a little resistant.
Methodology
A laboratory survey was conducted where eight hospitals tested five strains of enterococci for vancomycin resistance using their routine methods.
Potential Biases
Some errors may have been caused by inadequately skilled personnel and outdated testing methods.
Limitations
The study did not collect information on the software versions used in automated susceptibility test systems.
Participant Demographics
The eight laboratories serviced hospitals with a median bed count of 148, including neonatal, pediatric, and adult intensive care units.
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