Resumen

SOLER V, Tamara; SALAMANCA F, Lucía; ARBO OM, Guillermo  y  MOLINA E, Eliana. In vitro susceptibility of Streptococcus pneumoniæ strains isolated from lower respiratory infections. Rev. méd. Chile [online]. 2002, vol.130, n.3, pp.304-308. ISSN 0034-9887.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4067/S0034-98872002000300009.

Background: The rising antimicrobial resistance of streptococcus pneumoniæ, requires permanent surveillance. Antimicrobial treatments of invasive infections must be modified accordingly. Aim: To assess the in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility of streptococcus pneumoniæ strains isolated from lower respiratory infections. Material and methods: Seventy five strains isolated during three periods in consecutive years were studied. In vitro susceptibility towards penicillin, erythromycin and ceftriaxone was studied using E-test technique minimal inhibitory concentrations. Results: Five percent of strains were penicillin resistant and 11% had an intermediate sensitivity. Erythromycin resistance was observed in 1.3% of strains. Eight percent of strains had an intermediate sensitivity towards ceftriaxone and no resistance was observed. Comparing susceptibility in the three studied periods, it remained low and stable. Conclusions: High and intermediate resistance of Strepfococcus pneumoniæ towards penicillin is less prevalent than in other countries. A close surveillance must be maintained (Rev Méd Chile 2002; 130: 304-8)

Palabras clave : Erythromycin; Penicillin resistance; Streptococcus pneumoniæ.