Mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in Haemophilus parainfluenzae

Haemophilus parainfluenzae is part of the HACEK group of fastidious bacteria commonly implicated in endocarditis and bacteremia. Previously considered as a normal respiratory, oral and sometimes genitourinary commensal, it has been recognised as a pathogen that can cause life-threatening infections in both immunocompromised and healthy individuals. It has also been reported as a bacterium that can harbor transferable antibiotic resistance genes. This paper presents a literature review on the molecular mechanisms of resistance of H. parainfluenzae to commonly prescribed antibiotics and discusses areas for further research.