Challenges in identifying antibiotic resistance targets for point-of-care diagnostics in general practice

Mitsakakis, Konstantinos; Kaman, Wendy E; Elshout, Gijs; Specht, Mara; Hays, John P

Large diversity in antibiotic resistance mechanisms in primary care Development of novel POC diagnostics to detect (combinations of): hydrolyzing enzymes or genes; mutation events; downregulation of efflux pumps; increase or loss of bacterial porins; and metabolically inactive bacterial cells POC diagnostic innovators ensure that their diagnostics are built around a 'flexible format' to allow for rapid and easy adaptation to new and emerging antibiotic resistances Lack of knowledge on the incidence of antibiotic resistance genes Continuous epidemiological analysis of the incidence of specific antibiotic resistance genes within primary care and the target market area. This goal could be achieved by ensuring 'connectivity' between (different) POC devices within a single GP practice to the local patient information system Ultimately, linking connected POC devices within local geographical regions could generate broader (including increased regional) data for GPs and POC developers on the past and current spread and future trends of antibiotic resistance within their (target) region