Biocide resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii: appraising the mechanisms

Abstract

A global upsurge in antibiotic-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii requires supervised selection of biocides and disinfectants to avert nosocomial infections by reducing its spread. Moreover, inadequate and improper biocides have been reported as a contributing factor in antimicrobial resistance. Regardless of the manner of administration, a biocidal concentration that does not kill the target bacteria creates a stress response, propagating the resistance mechanisms. This is an essential aspect of the disinfection programme and the overall bio-contamination management plan. Knowing the mechanisms of action of biocides and resistance modalities may open new avenues to discover novel agents. This review describes the mechanisms of action of some biocides, resistance mechanisms, and approaches to study susceptibility/resistance to these agents.

Keywords: Acinetobacter baumannii; Biocide; Resistance.