Healthcare professionals face a constant challenge with ever-evolving bacterial and fungal infections. Multidrug-resistant pathogens threaten the efficacy of existing treatments and highlight the need for new antimicrobial therapies. These microorganisms are typically resistant to the majority of antimicrobial agents, including carbapenems, making them difficult to treat. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) as an urgent public health threat.
HardyDisk AST™ Sulbatam-durlobactam
Sulbactam-durlobactam (brand name Xacduro) was FDA approved in May of 2023 to treat hospital-acquired bacterial pneumonia (HABP) and ventilator-associated bacterial pneumonia (VABP) caused by Acinetobacter baumannii-calcoaceticus complex. HardyDisk™ AST Sulbactam-durlobactam for Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion testing was subsequently FDA cleared 44 days later. This intravenous drug developed by Entasis Therapeutics Inc., provides a promising solution to treatment of CRAB.
Antimicrobial Resistance in Candida species
In addition to CRAB, drug-resistant fungal infections are becoming more common, especially in patients with weakened immune systems. Serious fungal infections are often life-threatening with a mortality rate up to 60%. Candida is part of the normal human microflora and invasive infections can occur if the organism is introduced into the bloodstream via catheter insertions, injections, endocarditis, or peritonitis. Candidemia and invasive candidiasis are often treated with antifungal agents such as fluconazole, caspofungin, and amphotericin B. However, the emergence of antimicrobial resistance in Candida species has complicated treatment strategies.
HardyDisk™ AST Rezafungin
A new antifungal agent that gained FDA approval in March is Rezafungin (Rezzayo). HardyDisk™ AST Rezafungin was subsequently FDA cleared 71 days later. Cidara Therapeutics developed this echinocandin antifungal agent to combat invasive fungal infections. This marks the first new treatment option approved for individuals with candidemia and invasive candidiasis in over 10 years.
The introduction of HardyDisk™ Sulbactam-durlobactam and HardyDisk™ Rezafungin expands the armamentarium for healthcare professionals. These new therapies provide hope for improved patient outcomes when drug-resistant microorganisms are encountered. Proper use of these agents can ensure the effectiveness of these treatments for years to come. The long-term effectiveness of these agents hinges on accurate AST and antimicrobial stewardship.
