Diagnostics and novel laboratory approaches to combat Neisseria gonorrhoeae antimicrobial resistance.

INTRODUCTION

Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonococcus, GC) has developed resistance to all antimicrobials recommended for gonorrhea treatment, owing to its genetic plasticity and capacity to acquire antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This review examines the crucial role of diagnostics and novel laboratory approaches in mitigating the spread of GC-AMR and in preserving the long-term effectiveness of current and future antimicrobials for gonorrhea.

AREAS COVERED: Recent advances in diagnostics and novel laboratory approaches for detection of GC-AMR, enhancing GC-AMR surveillance and clinical management of gonorrhea.

EXPERT OPINION: The rapid emergence and global dissemination of multidrug-resistant GC including ceftriaxone-resistant strains poses a grave challenge to current gonorrhea control and prevention strategies. The implementation of rapid diagnostics and novel laboratory approaches can, when used appropriately, support the rapid detection of GC-AMR, ensure timely treatment, reduce transmission, and preserve last-line antibiotics by enabling resistance-guided therapy. These diagnostics and novel laboratory approaches are also crucial for the early detection of emerging resistance to antimicrobials recently approved by the FDA, and other antimicrobials currently under development and anticipated for future clinical use. Integrating culture-based GC-AMR surveillance with rapid molecular assays targeting genetic determinants of AMR offers a comprehensive approach for robust monitoring and timely response to the ever-evolving GC-AMR.