Enterococcus faecium

Definition

Enterococcus faecium is a Gram-positive bacterium commonly found in the human gut. It is notable for its role in hospital-acquired infections and its resistance to many antibiotics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Enterococcus faecium is intrinsically resistant to many antibiotics, including cephalosporins and low levels of aminoglycosides.
2. Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) is a major concern in healthcare settings due to the limited treatment options available.
3. E. faecium can acquire resistance genes through horizontal gene transfer, complicating treatment strategies.
4. It is often involved in nosocomial infections such as urinary tract infections, bacteremia, and endocarditis.
5. High-level resistance to ampicillin in E. faecium is usually due to alterations in penicillin-binding proteins.

Review Questions

• What mechanisms contribute to Enterococcus faecium's antibiotic resistance?
• Why is vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) particularly concerning in hospitals?
• Which types of infections are commonly associated with Enterococcus faecium?

Related terms

Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE): Enterococci strains that are resistant to vancomycin, posing significant challenges in medical treatment.

Nosocomial Infections: Infections acquired in hospital settings, often involving multidrug-resistant organisms like E. faecium.

Penicillin-Binding Proteins (PBPs): Proteins that bind to penicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics; alterations in PBPs can lead to antibiotic resistance.