The molecular characteristics of A. baumannii vary by region, and therefore the preferred treatment for carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB) infections should be regarded as regionally specific and based on local epidemiology.

The preferred treatment for CRAB infections is unknown. Combination approaches may help to overcome multiple mechanisms of resistance and suppress further resistance; however, the clinical benefits of combination therapy remain unclear.

Among vulnerable and critically ill patients infected with CRAB, we advocate for early combination approaches, which include a carbapenem, polymyxin B, and/or ampicillin/sulbactam on the basis of site of infection and patient-specific factors (Table 4).

Host factors, source control measures, and proper infection control practices are critical determinants of patient outcomes and containment of A. baumannii infections.