Antimicrobial resistance

Antimicrobial resistance (pronounced: an-tee-my-kroh-bee-uhl ri-zis-tuhns) is the phenomenon where microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites change in ways that render the medications used to cure the infections they cause ineffective.

Etymology

The term "antimicrobial resistance" is derived from three Greek words: "anti" meaning against, "micros" meaning small, and "bios" meaning life. "Resistance" comes from the Latin "resistentia", meaning to resist.

Definition

Antimicrobial resistance occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites are able to survive exposure to antimicrobial drugs like antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics. This means that the drugs no longer work to kill or inhibit the growth of these microorganisms.

Causes

The main cause of antimicrobial resistance is the misuse and overuse of antimicrobial drugs in humans, animals, and plants. Other contributing factors include poor infection prevention and control, lack of access to clean water, sanitation, and vaccination, and lack of regulations and oversight of antimicrobial use.

Impact

Antimicrobial resistance poses a significant threat to global health as it can lead to higher medical costs, prolonged hospital stays, and increased mortality. It can also lead to the failure of standard treatments, the spread of infections, and the need for more expensive and toxic medications.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for antimicrobial resistance include appropriate use of antimicrobials, infection prevention and control, immunization, and improved sanitation and hygiene.

Related Terms

• Antibiotic resistance
• Drug resistance
• Superbug
• Multidrug resistance

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Antimicrobial resistance
• Wikipedia's article - Antimicrobial resistance

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