5 Questions
Why are mycobacterial infections difficult to treat with antibiotics?
Their cell wall is impermeable to many drugs
Which drug is considered a first-line drug for the treatment of tuberculosis?
Isoniazid
What is the recommended duration of treatment for uncomplicated pulmonary tuberculosis?
6 months
Why is a combination of at least two effective drugs recommended for the treatment of mycobacterial infections?
To prevent the development of resistance
What makes mycobacteria resistant to antibiotics?
Intracellular location within macrophages
Study Notes
Challenges in Treating Mycobacterial Infections
- Mycobacterial infections are difficult to treat with antibiotics due to the unique properties of the bacterial cell wall, which makes it hard for antibiotics to penetrate and reach their target.
First-Line Drug for Tuberculosis
- Isoniazid is considered a first-line drug for the treatment of tuberculosis.
Duration of Treatment for Pulmonary Tuberculosis
- The recommended duration of treatment for uncomplicated pulmonary tuberculosis is 6-9 months.
Importance of Combination Therapy
- A combination of at least two effective drugs is recommended for the treatment of mycobacterial infections to prevent the emergence of antibiotic resistance.
Mechanisms of Antibiotic Resistance
- Mycobacteria can become resistant to antibiotics due to genetic mutations, which alter the target site of the antibiotic, or through the production of enzymes that degrade the antibiotic.
- Mycobacteria can also develop resistance by reducing the permeability of their cell wall, making it harder for antibiotics to penetrate.
Test your knowledge about drugs used to treat mycobacterial infections such as tuberculosis and leprosy. Learn about the challenges in treating these infections due to slow growth, intracellular location, and impermeable cell wall.
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