A GROUNDBREAKING dataset, the Antibiotic Resistance Microbiology Dataset (ARMD), has been developed to help combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by harnessing the power of electronic health records (EHRs). Spanning over 15 years of data from two academic-affiliated hospitals, ARMD offers a rich resource for studying the patterns of resistance and susceptibility to antibiotics in adult patients. The dataset, which includes microbiological cultures, susceptibility profiles for 55 antibiotics, and related clinical and demographic information, provides a comprehensive tool for antimicrobial stewardship, decision-making, and causal inference research.
ARMD’s de-identified data set includes key attributes such as organism identification, susceptibility patterns, and patient demographics, making it a valuable resource for researchers seeking to understand the complexities of AMR. The dataset also includes inferred susceptibility rules, providing additional insights into the effectiveness of various antibiotics. Designed to be reusable and interoperable, ARMD promotes collaboration among researchers and clinicians, encouraging innovative solutions to tackle one of the most urgent global health threats.
AMR has emerged as a critical concern in global health, with nearly 5 million deaths worldwide attributed to resistant infections in 2019. In the U.S. alone, more than 2.8 million antimicrobial-resistant infections occur each year, resulting in over 35,000 deaths. The development of ARMD is a timely step in addressing the rising tide of antibiotic resistance, supporting initiatives aimed at improving clinical decision-making and enhancing antimicrobial stewardship programs. Researchers now have access to a powerful tool for analyzing resistance patterns, guiding therapeutic strategies, and informing public health interventions.
By leveraging EHR-derived big data, ARMD provides a window into the evolving landscape of antimicrobial resistance, offering hope for more effective strategies to mitigate its impact on healthcare systems worldwide. As AMR continues to threaten public health, resources like ARMD are pivotal in driving progress towards more effective management and treatment solutions.
Reference:
Nateghi Haredasht F et al. Antibiotic Resistance Microbiology Dataset (ARMD): A Resource for Antimicrobial Resistance from EHRs. Sci Data. 2025;12(1):1299.
