The widespread use of antibiotics has been associated with the emergence of 
antimicrobial resistance among bacteria. 'ESKAPE' (Enterococcus faecium, 
Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acintobacter baumannii, 
Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacter spp.) pathogens play a major role in the 
rapidly changing scenario of antimicrobial resistance in the 21st century. 
Chloramphenicol is a broad spectrum antibiotic that was abandoned in developed 
countries due to its association with fatal aplastic anemia. However, it is 
still widely used in the developing world. In light of the emerging problem of 
multi-drug resistant pathogens, its role should be reassessed. Our paper reviews 
in vitro data on the activity of chloramphenicol against ESKAPE pathogens. 
Susceptibility patterns for Gram-positives were good, although less favorable 
for Gram-negatives. However, in combination with colistin, chloramphenicol was 
found to have synergistic activity. The risk-benefit related to chloramphenicol 
toxicity has not been analyzed. Therefore, extra precautions should be taken 
when prescribing this agent.