Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: an Overview of Therapeutic Options and Treatment Regimens

Abstract

Acinetobacter baumannii, a Gram-negative coccobacillus, is an opportunistic pathogen originating from the natural environment (soil, water, and plants). This bacterium is common in the human skin microbiota and is capable of colonizing diverse environments (e.g., hospital environments). A. baumannii is a bacterium naturally resistant to multiple antibiotic classes. In recent years, due to its ability to acquire resistance genes from other bacteria, it has become a critical threat, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs). The presence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains significantly complicates the treatment of such infections. The decreasing effectiveness of existing antimicrobials against rapidly evolving pathogens reinforces the urgent need to develop new antibiotics and alternative non-antibiotic treatments. This review summarizes current data on available treatment strategies, classified according to A. baumannii resistance profiles, and examines promising therapies under investigation.