Global epidemiology, clinical burden, and antimicrobial resistance of the WHO priority pathogens: an updated review focusing on understudied non-baumannii Acinetobacter and emerging extensively drug-resistant threats.

The World Health Organization (WHO) priority pathogens list, particularly those classified as "critical" and "high" priority, serves as a pivotal framework guiding global efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This review synthesizes updated evidence on the global epidemiology, clinical burden, and antimicrobial resistance of WHO priority pathogens as of 2026. Despite extensive research on Acinetobacter baumannii, non-baumannii Acinetobacter species remain relatively understudied despite their increasing clinical relevance. This review highlights the significance of these non-baumannii species in healthcare-associated infections and their emerging resistance profiles. Additionally, the review addresses newly identified extensively drug-resistant (XDR) threats that pose significant challenges to current therapeutic options. By synthesizing the latest surveillance data, molecular resistance mechanisms, and treatment hurdles, this review aims to inform clinical management strategies, infection control practices, and public health policy development. Ultimately, this evidence-based synthesis seeks to support targeted interventions and guide future research priorities in the global fight against AMR.