A study from the University of Sheffield in the United Kingdom published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows that pneumonia bacteria have a new motivation, called an “evolutionary phylum,” to become resistant to antibiotics.. Scientists have discovered that when bacteria reject antibiotic treatments, genetic scars appear on their genomes.
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The Sheffield research team, led by Dr Andrew Fenton from the School of Biological Sciences, discovered mutations in phosphodiesterase 1, which may be a pathway for antibiotic resistance. This advance could help transform treatments for patients with this disease and protect lives.
Related topics
Likewise, in addition to the Sheffield University study, several studies have analyzed microbial resistance to certain antibiotics.
A study published in the journal Cell found that certain bacteria can develop resistance to antibiotics through gene exchange. This process can occur between bacteria of the same or different species.
Additionally, another investigation in the journal Science found that antibiotic resistance in bacteria is a product of changes in metabolism. The study named this process “metabolic evolution,” which allows bacteria to absorb nutrients that are insensitive to antibiotics.
All of this research is relevant to understanding why certain bacteria are associated with diseases, such as pneumonia. They become resistant to antibiotics and pose a risk to the recovery of patients who develop certain pathologies.
What is pneumonia?
According to the Mayo Clinic, pneumonia is an infection that affects the lungs, specifically the air sacs called alveoli. This infection may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. When the alveoli in the lungs fill with fluid or pus due to infection, breathing becomes difficult and can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
Pneumonia affects millions of people around the world every year, especially children, because, It accounts for about 14% of all deaths in children under 5 years old, according to the World Health Organization. Although a common condition, it can be serious and life-threatening if not treated properly.
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warning symptoms
Symptoms for people with pneumonia may vary depending on severity and may include:
It is recommended that if a person experiences these symptoms frequently, they seek immediate medical attention, especially if they are older or have complex immune systems.
Transmission and diagnostics
According to the World Health Organization, it can be spread in different ways. Viruses and bacteria commonly found in people’s noses or throats can infect the lungs when inhaled. They can also spread through airborne droplets produced when coughing or sneezing.
In addition, pneumonia can be spread through blood, especially during childbirth and for some time afterwards. More research is needed on the various pathogens that cause pneumonia and how they are transmitted to facilitate timely treatment.
also, The diagnosis of pneumonia usually involves the connection between the patient’s history, physical examination, and medical laboratory tests. Experts can use chest X-rays, blood tests, and sputum cultures to confirm the presence of pneumonia and determine its cause, whether it is viral, bacterial, or fungal.
antibiotic treatment
If bacterial pneumonia is diagnosed, antibiotics are an important part of treatment. The specific antibiotic depends on the type of bacteria involved and the drug sensitivity.
Even if symptoms improve before completing treatment, it is important to follow the entire course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.
In addition to antibiotics, recovery can be aided by rest, fluids, and pain medications to reduce fever and pain. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required to administer intravenous antibiotics and provide respiratory support.
It’s important to realize that pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can affect anyone. Recognizing symptoms and seeking medical attention as early as possible is crucial for effective treatment.
Antibiotics are an important tool in the fight against bacterial pneumonia, but proper treatment depends on accurate diagnosis by a health care professional. Prevention, such as getting vaccinated against pneumonia, is also key to reducing the risk of contracting this respiratory illness.
Dylan Escobar Ruiz
EL TIEMPO School of Multimedia Journalism
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