Prevalence of Extended-Spectrum \(\beta\)-Lactamases Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolates: A Case from Tertiary Care Hospital, South India

Abstract

Background: Klebsiella's significance in the growing number of gram-negative aerobic bacillary nosocomial infections in the United States and India. Antimicrobial resistance is on the rise in the current antibiotic period, which is a major source of concern. Multidrug-resistant species such as Klebsiella pneumoniae are one of the most common causes of sepsis and infection-related deaths.

Aim: This research used phenotypic methods to assess the prevalence of ESBL-producing Klebsiella in different clinical specimens.

Materials and Methods: The existence of Extended Spectrum—lactamases (ESBLs) in samples received over a two-year span was determined phenotypically in a prospective laboratory-based analysis. A total of 7644 gram negative bacterial isolates were recovered from a total of 16526 clinical specimens received in the microbiology laboratory, over the two year period. Among the 2497 isolates of Klebsiella, 1157 isolates were ESBL positive (46%).

Conclusion:  The infections caused by drug-resistant Klebsiella that produce ESBL are difficult to treat, and they can be fatal. In all healthcare settings, a strong and prompt implementation of an effective antibiotic policy and rational use of antibiotics is needed.