The Impact of Antimicrobial Resistance on Co-INFECTIONS: Management Strategies for HIV, TB and Malaria
Ilesanmi Taiwo Ayomide *
Department of Pure and Applied Physics, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Lawal Olabisi Promise
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria.
Adegbesan Abiodun Christopher
Department of Global Health, African Cancer Institute, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, SA.
Popoola Possible Okikiola
Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Akinola Dolapo Esther
Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria.
Ani Charissa Favour
College of Medicine and Surgery, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Agbani, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Okabeonye Sunday Agbo
Department of Applied Biology and Biotechnology, Enugu State University of Science and Technology Agbani, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Owusu-Ansah Sandra
Department of Biomedical Sciences, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana.
Okeke Jennifer Chiagozie
Department of Microbiology, Madonna University Elele, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Ani Chinaemerem Precious
Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.
Ugoagwu Kingsley Ugonna
Department of Immunology, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a growing global health problem, especially in the management of co-infections such as HIV, TB, and malaria. AMR occurs when a pathogen develops resistance against antimicrobial agents, which results in less effective treatments and contributes to increased morbidity and mortality. Co-infections further worsen this condition by introducing complex interactions among pathogens that complicate disease progression and treatment protocols. This review discusses the impact of AMR on co-infection from a multifaceted perspective, considering cases of HIV-TB, HIV-malaria, and TB-malaria. It considers the main factors contributing to the emergence and dissemination of resistant varieties: interactions between pathogens, horizontal gene transfer, and inappropriate antibiotic use.
The study has highlighted that comprehensive management strategies, including antimicrobial stewardship, better diagnostics, vaccination, and addressing the basic underlying risks, such as poor sanitation and comorbid conditions, are urgently needed. Advanced diagnostic testing and strong infection control are crucial in lessening the burden of AMR. From a wider perspective, the paper calls for global collaboration in developing new antimicrobials and raising public awareness about using antibiotics judiciously.
It concludes by stressing once more the need for integrating global health to address AMR and improve treatment outcomes to protect public health from the compounded threats of antimicrobial resistance and co-infections.
Keywords: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), co-infections, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), malaria, management strategies, Tuberculosis (TB)