Control of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in the era of evolving antimicrobial resistance

Infect Dis Clin North Am. 2013 Dec;27(4):723-37. doi: 10.1016/j.idc.2013.08.001. Epub 2013 Oct 31.

Abstract

Neisseria gonorrhoeae has developed resistance to all previous first-line antimicrobial therapies over the past 75 years. Today the cephalosporins, the last available antibiotic class that is sufficiently effective, are also threatened by evolving resistance. Screening for asymptomatic gonorrhea in women and men who have sex with men, treating with a dual antibiotic regimen, ensuring effective partner therapy, and remaining vigilant for treatment failures constitute critical activities for clinicians in responding to evolving antimicrobial resistance. This article reviews the epidemiology, history of antimicrobial resistance, current screening and treatment guidelines, and future treatment options for gonorrhea.

Keywords: Antimicrobial resistance; Neisseria gonorrhoeae; Sexually transmitted disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Cephalosporins / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Resistance, Bacterial*
  • Female
  • Gonorrhea / diagnosis*
  • Gonorrhea / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mass Screening / methods
  • Neisseria gonorrhoeae* / drug effects
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Sexual Partners

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Cephalosporins