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    (Gram-negative) Bacteria

    A highly televant health risk

    As single-celled microorganisms measuring 0.3–5 µm, gram-negative bacteria play a central role in medical settings, particularly when it comes to infections and antibiotic resistance. Their distinctive cell structure and genetic adaptability make them persistent pathogens that are difficult to combat.

    Why do gram-negative bacteria deserve special attention?

    • Around 42.3% of all nosocomial pathogens are gram-negative bacteria.
    • They exhibit high virulence and resilience.
    • They display increased resistance to antibiotics (3MRGN/4MRGN).

    Gram-negative bacteria are frequently involved in severe infections and are considered the primary cause of many healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Their outer membrane, diverse virulence factors, and pronounced resistance mechanisms allow them to survive even in the presence of modern antibiotics.

    • The main difference between gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria lies in the structure of their cell wall and in the way they behave during Gram staining. Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer that retains the dye and stains them dark blue.

      Gram-negative bacteria have a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an additional outer membrane that loses the dye, thereby causing the bacteria to appear red. The different cell wall structures of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria also influence their varying susceptibility to antibiot-ics and the way they behave during infections.

      Many infections caused by gram-negative bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli can progress severely and become very dangerous.

      These infections include pneumonia, urinary tract and gastrointestinal infections, sepsis (blood-stream infections), wound infections, and even meningitis.

    • Because of their physiology, gram-negative bacteria present a particular challenge for the healthcare system. In practice, this results in considerably longer treatment times, greater use of medical resources, and rising costs for hospitals and the healthcare system.

      Patients with weakened immune systems, including older people, newborns, and individuals with severe illness, are especially at risk. In addition, these pathogens spread through numerous direct and indirect transmission pathways. This versatility makes them a serious risk that requires consistent hygiene measures and ongoing awareness in everyday clinical environments.

      Challenges for healthcare

      • Increase in bacterial load and HAIs
      • Longer treatment times and extended hospital stays
      • Rising costs because of the resources required
      • More frequent severe cases

    Gram-negative bacteria: A concise overview in our information sheet

    Worldwide, several million hospital stays are extended each year because of infections acquired in healthcare facilities. Almost half of these are caused by gram-negative bacteria. Our information sheet clearly and concisely summarizes key information on gram-negative bacteria. An overview for anyone who wants to better understand the risks of infection and how to prevent them.

    More knowledge – less risk. Download our information sheet on gram-negative bacteria now and actively help to prevent resistance and infections more effectively.

    Download the free fact sheet

    Scientifically substantiated and transparently documented

    Our informational materials are based on recognized scientific studies, reports, and official recommendations. Here you will find all the sources underlying the content of our information sheets – clearly compiled and regularly updated.

    Our sources at a glance