Understanding Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

Harmful bacteria enter the body and multiply, leading to bacterial infections. These infections can occur in different parts of the body and range in severity from easily treatable to life-threatening.  

When determining an appropriate treatment plan for a patient, it is imperative that a physician can accurately identify the causative pathogen to determine whether an infection is bacterial or viral. Traditional testing methods are often slow, and a physician might prescribe antibiotics empirically while awaiting results – particularly in high-risk cases such as instances of suspected meningitis and sepsis. If the infection is viral, antibiotics should never be used. It is important to note that empiric prescribing can contribute to unnecessary antibiotic use or overuse which is the main driver for the growing pandemic of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).¹  

Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics, specifically designed to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics work by targeting bacterial cell structures or functions. Antibiotic resistance continues to emerge, and some bacterial strains may be resistant to certain antibiotics making them more difficult to treat. One way to mitigate the emergence of AMR is through initiatives that support the appropriate use of antimicrobials such as Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs (ASPs). 

Optimizing antibiotic use is critical to preserve use now and in the future, effectively treat infections, and combat AMR.² The symptoms of bacterial infections can vary, and laboratory tests are needed to determine the specific cause of an infection. bioMérieux solutions equip the microbiology laboratory with the diagnostic tools needed to accurately identify the patient’s cause of infection.