A new study from researchers at the University of Calgary, published in Lancet Infectious Diseases, examines the possible rise of antibiotic-resistant strains of E. coli, including the potentially-lethal 0157:H7 strain. Researchers seem to be worried that the resistant strains may be becoming more common in hospital settings in the near future, calling for increased funding to track the spread of these resistant strains.
The study examined numerous surveys from the past seven years from a variety of countries, tracking the growth of antibiotic-resistant E. coli. The authors stated, according to The Press Association, "These bacteria have become widely prevalent in the community setting in certain areas of the world and they are most likely being imported into the hospital setting."
The researchers studied strains of E. coli that produce extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL), which is an enzyme that makes the bacteria resistant to most commonly used antibiotics in hospitals. The United Kingdom’s Health Protection Agency has already begun working with the National Health Service to begin addressing this potentially dangerous problem so that the risks associated with these resistant E. coli strains will be minimized. The information gathered will be important not only for the care of hospital patients in Europe, but also in the United States.
Most people recover from E. coli infections without any special treatment or medication after 5-10 days. The best treatment is to get plenty of fluids and sleep. Antibiotics have not been found to be of any benefit in the treatment of E. coli. Anti-diarrheal agents such as loperamide (Imodium®) should also be avoided according to the CDC.
There has been a lot of concern that the use of antibiotics to treat E. coli infections can cause an increased risk for hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and kidney problems. A 2000 study by Wong et. al. (The risk of hemolytic uremic syndrome after antibiotic treatment of Escherichia coli O157:H7 infections) reported that there did appear to be an increased risk of developing hemolytic uremic syndrome if treated with antibiotics. A more recent study that compiled research on hemolytic uremic syndrome and E. coli O157:H7 antibiotic treatment by Safdar et. al. (Risk of hemolytic uremic syndromoe after antibiotic treatment of Escherichia coli O157:H7 enteritis: a meta-analysis) found that there was in fact on apparent statistical increase of HUS infections when antibiotics were used for E. coli O157:H7. You should consult with your doctor regarding E. coli treatment and the use of antiboitics.
For information on the treatment of hemolytic uremic syndrome see Treatment of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome.
Pritzker | Ruohonen has a national practice and represents E. coli victims throughout the United States. To contact the firm, please call toll-free at 1-888-377-8900 or submit the online contact form.
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