Novel developments in the treatment of acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections

Introduction: Acute bacterial skin and skin structure infection (ABSSSI) represents a major burden for healthcare systems. The increased prevalence of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, combined with the limited availability of microbiologic data when treating ABSSSI, has led to a need for more convenient, less toxic anti-MRSA agents. Recent approvals have added several agents to the antibiotic armamentarium that provide an expanded spectrum of activity and ease of administration compared to older agents. Areas covered: In this review, the authors discuss updated approaches to the management of ABSSSI. They also provide a review of recent FDA approved antibiotics and emerging investigational agents for treatment of ABSSSI. Expert opinion: Several new antibiotic agents have received FDA approval through the revised guidance on ABSSSI clinical trials with advantages of activity against MRSA and ease of administration. In theory, this may translate to reducing the utilization of healthcare resources by allowing for earlier discharge and reducing the need for outpatient parenteral therapy. While the approval of new agents offers the opportunity to improve and simplify treatment of ABSSSI, it is more important now than ever to use these agents in a responsible manner.