From the Research
Treatment for multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) Elizabethkingia meningoseptica infection typically requires combination antimicrobial therapy due to its extensive resistance profile, with the most recent study 1 suggesting that minocycline and rifampin are the most effective agents. The recommended treatment regimen includes a combination of rifampin (600mg daily) and minocycline (100mg IV every 12 hours), with consideration for adding an additional agent such as fluoroquinolones (ciprofloxacin 400mg IV every 12 hours or levofloxacin 750mg IV daily) based on susceptibility testing results.
- Treatment duration is typically 14-21 days depending on infection site and clinical response.
- Susceptibility testing is crucial as resistance patterns vary, and therapy should be adjusted based on results 1.
- Elizabethkingia meningoseptica is intrinsically resistant to many beta-lactams including carbapenems due to chromosomally encoded metallo-beta-lactamases.
- Source control through removal of infected catheters or drainage of abscesses is essential when applicable.
- Close monitoring of clinical response is necessary, with consideration for extending treatment in immunocompromised patients or those with severe infections.
- Consultation with infectious disease specialists is strongly recommended due to the challenging nature of these infections 2, 3, 4, 5.