PNEUMOCOCCAL INFECTIONS IN ADULTS - ROLE OF PNEUMOCOCCI WITH DECREASED SUSCEPTIBILITY TO PENICILLIN

Microbiologic data are reviewed with emphasis on the PLP modifications that underlie resistance of pneumococci to penicillin. Current knowle dge on acquired resistance to other antimicrobial agents is also prese nted. Temporal and geographic trends of acquired resistance patterns o f pneumococci are reported. The main topographic forms of pneumococcal infection in adults are reviewed (pneumonia, septicemia, meningitis, ENT infections, lower respiratory tract infections). Attention is draw n to the specific features of pneumococci with decreased susceptibilit y to penicillin and to the therapeutic problems specific to each site of infection.