VAISHNAVI MARAPE AND NIRAJ GHANWATE
Abstract
Resistant to carbapenem, Klebsiella pneumoniae poses a serious threat to international public health, characterized by its high resistance rates and the scarcity of effective treatment alternatives. The rising prevalence of carbapenemase-producing strains, especially those associated with OXA-48, VIM, NDM, KPC, and IMP-like genes, has led to the ineffectiveness of many last-line antibiotics. The use of combination therapy represents an optimal approach to improve bactericidal effectiveness, while simultaneously decreasing mortality rates and curbing the development of resistance. This review elucidates the mechanisms underlying carbapenem resistance, examines frequently utilized combination treatment options along with their clinical outcomes, and underscores the challenges and future directions in managing CRKP infections.