Molecular Characterization of Resistance and Virulence Genes in Enterococcus Faecium Strains Isolated Between 2000-2021; Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: The spread of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci (VRE) is a major threat in healthcare institutions, especially for patients in the risk group. The aim of this study is to reveal the antibiotic resistance genes, virulence genes and other accompanying factors detected in vancomycin resistant Enterococcus faecium strains isolated from various clinical specimens in different parts of Turkiye. Material and Methods: For this purpose, a systematic search was carried out using different electronic databases between January 2000 and September 2021. A total of 17 studies were evaluated within the scope of systematic review. Results: The vanA gene was detected the most between the years 2000-2007, and no statistically significant difference was found according to the years. The prevalence of the vanB gene was highest between 2008 and 2013, and no statistical difference was found according to the years (p> 0.05). The vanA gene was mostly detected in Eastern Anatolia, Black Sea, Mediterranean and Aegean, vanB Central Anatolia and Southeastern Anatolia regions. No reports related to the vanC gene were found. Since all strains were E. faecium in our study, it is an expected finding that the vanC gene region was never reported. The esp and hyl gene between 2014-2021. Conclusion: The prevalence of resistance and virulence genes among bacteria is a matter of great concern, limiting treatment options. In particular, effective measures should be taken to prevent healthcare-associated VRE infections, and each institution should report its own resistance data.