Bacterial Infections and Antibiotic Sensitivity Patterns in Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review
Abstract
Cancer patients, particularly those undergoing chemotherapy or immunosuppressive treatments, are at heightened risk for bacterial infections due to their compromised immune systems. This susceptibility is compounded by the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), especially among multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, posing significant challenges for infection management. This review examines bacterial infections and antibiotic sensitivity patterns in cancer patients, emphasizing the impact of AMR. Common pathogens, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, demonstrate varying degrees of resistance, complicating empirical therapy decisions. The prevalence of ESKAPE pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species) among cancer patients underlines the importance of targeted infection control practices. Current approaches, such as prophylactic antibiotic use, infection control, and antimicrobial stewardship, are explored as strategies to curb resistance rates and improve clinical outcomes. This review underscores the urgent need for novel therapeutics and judicious antibiotic use to mitigate AMR and enhance infection management for vulnerable cancer patient populations.
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Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
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