Which of the following statements about cefuroxime is true?
**Core Concept**
Cefuroxime is a second-generation cephalosporin antibiotic, which means it has a broad spectrum of activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It works by inhibiting cell wall synthesis through binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), ultimately leading to bacterial cell lysis and death.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Cefuroxime is specifically active against a wide range of Gram-positive bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, and some Gram-negative bacteria, including Haemophilus influenzae. It achieves this by penetrating the bacterial cell wall and inhibiting the action of PBPs, which are essential for cell wall synthesis. This mechanism of action is similar to other Ξ²-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillins and other cephalosporins.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option may be incorrect because it does not specify the spectrum of activity of cefuroxime. While cefuroxime does have some activity against Gram-negative bacteria, its primary mechanism of action is through inhibition of cell wall synthesis in Gram-positive bacteria.
**Option B:** This option may be incorrect because it does not mention the specific mechanism of action of cefuroxime. While cefuroxime does inhibit cell wall synthesis, it is not the only mechanism of action for all cephalosporins.
**Option C:** This option may be incorrect because it does not specify the type of bacteria that cefuroxime is active against. While cefuroxime does have some activity against Gram-negative bacteria, its primary activity is against Gram-positive bacteria.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical consideration when using cefuroxime is its potential for inducing resistance in bacteria. This can occur through the selection of resistant strains or the development of chromosomal mutations that alter the target PBPs. To minimize the risk of resistance, it is essential to use cefuroxime judiciously and in combination with other antibiotics when possible.
**Correct Answer: C. Cefuroxime is active against a wide range of Gram-positive bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae.**