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Transmission of extended spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli and antimicrobial resistance gene flow across One Health compartments in eastern Africa: a whole-genome sequence analysis from a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The One Health paradigm considers interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health. However, there is little evidence from high-income countries to support the importance of a One Health approach to addressing spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Given AMR is a global threat, understanding how the close interactions of humans with animals and the environment in low-income settings affect the spread of AMR is important. We aimed to investigate diversity and transmission of extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli across household-linked One Health compartments using genomic data. METHODS: We sequenced whole genomes of ESBL-producing E coli isolates from humans, animals, and the environment from a prospective, longitudinal cohort study conducted in Malawi (April 29, 2019, to Dec 3, 2020) and Uganda (July 16, 2020, to Aug 6, 2021). In the cohort study, 259 households were enrolled at baseline in Malawi and 92 in Uganda from a mix of urban, peri-urban, and rural areas. Households were followed up at months 1, 3, and 6 in Malawi and at months 1, 2, and 4 in Uganda. Samples collected at each visit included human and animal stool, environmental samples from hand-contact areas, food, and water, and broader environmental samples such as river water. Samples were cultured in buffered peptone water and then ESBL chromogenic agar to isolate ESBL-producing E coli. ESBL-producing E coli isolates underwent whole-genome sequencing. We performed phylogenetic analyses, and in-silico multi-locus sequence typing, characterised AMR determinants and linked genotypes with sample location, ecological source, and other covariates. We performed fine-scale single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and network analysis to infer strain and plasmid transmission across ecological compartments. The primary outcome was colonisation with ESBL-producing E coli. Secondary outcomes were genomic clusters and ESBL genomic determinants within and between One Health compartments. FINDINGS: We found high diversity of ESBL-producing E coli, with 170 sequence types and 166 genomic clusters identified from 2344 genomes, including 1814 genomes from Malawi (907 human, 221 animal, and 686 environmental) and 530 genomes from Uganda (380 human, 147 animal, and three environmental). Sequence type (ST)131 dominated in Malawi (209 [11·5%] of 1814 genomes), and ST10 dominated in Uganda (45 [8·5%] of 530 genomes). Common ESBL genes blaCTX-M-15 (1604 [68·4%] of 2344 genomes) and blaCTX-M-27 (336 [14·3%] of 2344 genomes) were carried on a complex network of 55 and 30 different plasmids. This diversity of plasmids presented multiple pathways for dissemination and revealed high force of selection. Phylogenetic analyses revealed common intermixing of isolates between humans, animals, and the environment. SNP transmission analysis revealed ecologically overlapping clusters, suggesting ESBL-producing E coli co-circulation both within and between compartments with frequent spillover events. Applying a five-SNP threshold, we inferred 463 human-environment transmission events, 146 human-animal events, and 142 animal-environment events. INTERPRETATION: Our work suggests that a One Health approach is crucial to addressing AMR in eastern Africa. Improving water, sanitation, and hygiene systems will create a safer environment, reduce spillovers of AMR bacteria between compartments, and eventually reduce AMR reservoirs in the environment and in animals. FUNDING: Medical Research Council, National Institute for Health and Care Research, and Wellcome Trust.

Humans↗

[Extended-spectrum betalactamases producing Escherichia coli: a new health-care associated infection threat?].

OBJECTIVES: Study the health-care associated infection risk due to Extended-Spectrum Betalactamases Producing Escherichia coli (ESBL Esc) isolated from diagnostic samples. METHODS: Descriptive, longitudinal and prospective study of 104 diagnostic isolates of ESBL Esc, one per patient, identified in Amiens university hospital between February 1999 and December 2005. Patients (sex, age, contamination risk factor, antecedent hospitalization) and microbiological data were progressively collected, entered into EPI INFO 6.04dFr software (ENSP, France) database, and compared using the chi-square test and Wilcoxon rank sum test, as appropriate. A p value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: Diagnostic ESBL Esc isolates raised, per 1000 isolates of Esc, from 1.2 in 1999 to 6 in 2005. Global and acquired isolates number of ESBL Esc varied from 7 and 3 in 2002 to 25 and 19 in 2003 (P=0.22). ESBL Esc global and acquired incidence per 10(5) patient-days were, 0.8 and 0.6 in 1999 and 4.99 and 3.4 in 2005 (P<10(-6)), but rose from 0.6 acquired isolate in 2002 to 3.9 in 2003 (P=0.002). ESBL Esc, isolated from urines, stools, pulmonary, blood and surgical site samples of patients of>/=65 years aged (68.3%), were imipenem and latamoxef sensitive. Their acquisition risk factors found were hospitalization during the last 6 month period (40/104) and transfer from other institutions (20/104). CONCLUSION: ESBL Esc isolates, among ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae, constitute an escalating health-care associated risk in our institution. The research at admission time of ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae, mainly in acute geriatric wards, strict isolation precaution and hand hygiene observance, rational antibiotic usage, are the key actions to control their cross transmission. Nonetheless, other studies are needed to determine whether we are in front of an ESBL Esc new clone emergence.

Escherichia coli↗

[Spread of Enterobacteriaceae producing broad-spectrum beta-lactamase and the development of their incidence over a 16-month period in a university hospital center].

Enterobacteriaceae producing extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLE) constitute with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus the main multiresistant bacteria recovered in French hospitals. Our objectives were to evaluate these ESBLE diffusion in our teaching hospital and to follow their incidence during a 16-month period, whereas a control programme (barrier precautions) had been implemented in the beginning of 1999. This study was conducted in a teaching hospital containing 1800 beds, from February 1999 to May 2000. All ESBLE isolated in clinical or screening samples were included. Duplicates (same bacteria in the same patient) were excluded. The detection of the ESBL was performed with the double-disk diffusion test. Incidence densities were determined with their 95% confidence interval (CI95%). Their evolution by four-month period was evaluated with the chi-square test for trend. During the 16-month period, 229 ESBLE were isolated. The incidence was 0.35 per 1000 patient-days (PD) (CI95% = [0.30-0.40]) for the whole hospital. It was 0.47/1000 PD (CI95% = [0.38-0.56]) in medical wards, 0.29/1000 PD (CI95% = [0.20-0.38]) in surgical wards and 1.32/1000 PD (CI95% = [0.90-1.74]) in intensive care units. Enterobacter aerogenes strains represented more than 75% of all ESBLE, whereas Klebsiella pneumoniae stains represented only 8.6%. During the study, the incidence of ESBLE and the proportion of strains acquired in our hospital decreased significantly (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.001 respectively). Indeed, between the first eight-month period and the last one, the incidence of ESBLE acquired in our hospital decreased by 55%, whereas the incidence of imported strains increased slightly. This study shows that the diffusion of ESBLE concerns the entire hospital. The implementation of a control programme of the spread of multiresistant bacteria allowed us to reduce significantly the incidence of ESBLE. This incidence seemed to be stable for several months. The implementation of a policy which restricts antimicrobial use would allow us to complete the the efficacy of barrier precautions.

Academic Medical Centers↗

Detection and typing of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases in clinical isolates of the family Enterobacteriaceae in a medical center in Turkey.

To determine and type the extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) among the family Enterobacteriaceae in a medical center, a total of 668 clinical isolates were screened. Of the 668 isolates, the 80 strains were presumptively defined as ESBL producers according to the result of disk method using ESBL marker antibiotics (aztreonam, ceftazidime, and cefoxitin). These 80 strains were retested with the double-disk synergy test (DDST), the E-test ESBL strip, a 5-microg ceftazidime disk, and agar dilution MICs of ceftazidime with and without clavulonic acid. Isoelectric focusing was performed to confirm ESBL production and type the beta-lactamases. By evaluation of the results of all tests used for ESBL detection together with isoelectric focusing, 33 (4.9%) of the 668 isolates were described as ESBL producer. The positive results of the agar dilution test, DDST, the E-test strip, and 5-microg ceftazidime disk were 32, 26, 27, and 26 of the 33 strains, respectively. ESBL positivity was 48.8% in Klebsiella species, 15.4% in Citrobacter species, 4.9% in Enterobacter species and 1.1% in Escherichia coli strains. The ESBL enzymes frequently determined were SHV-2/6-like (pI 7.6), SHV-5-like (pI 8.2), SHV-4-like (pI 7.8), and SHV-3-like (pI 7). SHV-derived enzymes were commonly observed in Klebsiella spp whereas TEM-related enzymes were seen in E. coli strains. The results of this study indicated that SHV-2/6-derived (pI 7.6) ESBL expression among the isolates of the family Enterobacteriaceae is an important problem in our medical center.

Anti-Bacterial Agents↗

Antibiotic resistance and production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases amongst Klebsiella spp. from intensive care units in Europe.

Consecutive klebsiellae were collected from ICU patients at 35 centres in Western and Southern Europe. Of 966 isolates obtained, 716 were Klebsiella pneumoniae, 248 were Klebsiella oxytoca and two were Klebsiella ozaenae. Most were from Belgium, France, Germany, Holland, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Turkey and a few from Greece and the UK. Production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) was inferred in 220 isolates on the basis of synergy between ceftazidime and clavulanate. Putative ESBL producers were received from 23 centres, including 20 of the 27 that contributed more than 10 klebsiellae. Over 88% of putative ESBL producers were resistant to ceftazidime 2 mg/L, ceftriaxone 1 mg/L and aztreonam 1 mg/L, whereas, amongst ESBL-negative isolates, more than 98% of K. pneumoniae and 87% of K. oxytoca were susceptible to these concentrations. Putative ESBL producers wre also more resistant to cefuroxime and cefoxitin than non-producers, but not to biapenem. MIC distributions of ciprofloxacin, piperacillin/tazobactam and aminoglycosides were bimodal for ESBL producers, with some isolates highly sensitive and others very resistant. For example, 70% of putative ESBL producers were susceptible to piperacillin/tazobactam 16 + 4 mg/L, but 30% were resistant, some highly so. Resistance to this combination, and to ciprofloxacin, was clustered in certain centres. Two other groups of cephalosporin-resistant isolates were identified besides ESBL producers, viz. (i) nine isolates, from three centres, with AmpC beta-lactamases and (ii) 20 K. oxytoca, from 15 centres, that hyperproduced K1 enzyme. Examination of the hospitals' own susceptibility data indicated that up to 33% of putative ESBL producers had been reported susceptible to third-generation cephalosporins or monobactams. This is disturbing, since ESBLs have been associated with clinical failure even when only low-level resistance was apparent in vitro.

Ampicillin↗

Occurrence and molecular analysis of extended-spectrum {beta}-lactamase-producing Proteus mirabilis in Hong Kong, 1999-2002.

OBJECTIVES: A study was conducted to evaluate the occurrence and characterization of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) among blood isolates of Proteus mirabilis collected over a 4 year period in Hong Kong. METHODS: Production of ESBLs among 99 consecutive and non-duplicate isolates was evaluated by the double-disc synergy test. The ESBLs were characterized by isoelectric focusing and PCR sequencing using specific primers. The epidemiological relationship of the isolates was studied by the Dienes test and PFGE. RESULTS: ESBLs were identified in 13 isolates, from none in 1999-2000 and up to 18.5% (5/27) in 2001 and 25.8% (8/31) in 2002. The ESBL-producing isolates were more resistant to ceftriaxone than to ceftazidime, and were more likely than non-ESBL-producers to have resistance to ciprofloxacin (76.9% versus 14%) and gentamicin (38.5% versus 9.3%). The ESBL content included CTX-M-13 (n=8), CTX-M-14 (n=3), SHV-5 (n=2), TEM-11 (n=1), and an unidentified ESBL with a pI of 7.5. The Dienes test revealed that the genetic background in the 99 isolates was highly heterogeneous, with 54 distinct types among 92 isolates and seven were non-typeable. Among the 13 ESBL-producing isolates, five different backgrounds, including one cluster (Dienes-pulsotype A) with nine isolates, were identified by both Dienes test and PFGE, thus suggesting both clonal and multi-clonal spread of the CTX-M enzymes. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate the emergence of CTX-M enzymes among P. mirabilis in Hong Kong. More ESBL screening of this species is required to improve their recognition.

Drug Resistance, Bacterial↗

Surveillance of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases from clinical samples and faecal carriers in Barcelona, Spain.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study was to characterize and compare the extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing organisms isolated from clinical samples and faecal carriers in 2001 and 2002. METHODS: A total of 5251 Enterobacteriaceae isolated from clinical samples and 1321 stool samples were evaluated for the presence of ESBLs. The stool samples were spread onto plates of MacConkey agar containing 2 mg/L cefotaxime for selection of ESBL-producing strains. These strains were defined as those showing synergism between amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and third-generation cephalosporins. The beta-lactamases involved were characterized by isoelectric focusing, PCR assays and DNA sequencing. RESULTS: The prevalence of ESBL-producing strains among clinical Enterobacteriaceae was 1.7%. Of these, 87.6% produced CTX-M, 25.8% produced SHV and 2.2% were TEM-type-producing strains. All clinical ESBL-producing strains were Escherichia coli, with the exception of four Klebsiella pneumoniae and one Citrobacter freundii. The prevalence of faecal carriage of ESBL-producing organisms was 3.3%. Of these, 75% produced CTX-M-type enzymes followed by 22.7% SHV-producing strains. All faecal ESBL-producing strains were E. coli except for one Enterobacter cloacae and one Proteus mirabilis. This latter strain produced the PER-1 enzyme reported for the first time in Spain. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of ESBL-producing strains in stool samples was higher than that observed in clinical samples from the same period. The different types of ESBLs found were similar in both contexts. The most prevalent ESBLs were the CTX-M-related enzymes, with nine different types, followed by SHV-12.

Carrier State↗

In vitro activity of temocillin against extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli.

OBJECTIVES: Temocillin is a semi-synthetic 6-alpha-methoxy derivative of ticarcillin. It is highly stable to most bacterial beta-lactamases. However, data concerning its activity against extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae are limited. We have analysed the in vitro activity of temocillin against clinical isolates of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli over the past 4 years in a university hospital in Brussels, Belgium. METHODS: Strains were screened for ESBL production using the double-disc synergy test. The MIC of 12 antimicrobial agents was determined for ESBL-producing E. coli isolates (n = 162) using the agar dilution method. ESBLs were characterized by isoelectric focusing; multiplex PCR for bla genes of the SHV, TEM and CTX-M families; and DNA sequencing. RESULTS: ESBL-producing E. coli isolates harboured CTX-M+TEM (35%), TEM alone (44%), CTX-M alone (6%), CTX-M+SHV (2%) and other ESBL combinations (10%). The proportion of temocillin-susceptible isolates was 92%, with MIC(50) and MIC(90) values of 8 and 32 mg/L, respectively. Co-resistance to ciprofloxacin and co-trimoxazole in ESBL-producing E. coli was frequent (39%). The proportion of isolates not susceptible to aminoglycosides was 55, 37 and 4% for tobramycin, gentamicin and amikacin, respectively. The proportion of isolates not susceptible to ceftazidime, cefotaxime, cefepime and piperacillin/tazobactam was 70, 52, 37 and 11%, respectively. No resistance to meropenem was observed. The proportion of strains exhibiting resistance to temocillin by year was stable over the study period. CONCLUSIONS: These data indicate good in vitro activity of temocillin against multiresistant ESBL-producing E. coli. Prospective clinical studies are necessary to examine temocillin's potential role in the treatment of non-complicated infections caused by ESBL-producing E. coli.

Anti-Bacterial Agents↗

Molecular epidemiology of multiresistant Escherichia coli isolates from community-onset urinary tract infections in Cornwall, England.

OBJECTIVES: To study the clonality of gentamicin-resistant, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-negative and ESBL-producing Escherichia coli isolated from community-onset urinary tract infections (UTIs) in Cornwall. METHODS: Isolates were identified by API, susceptibilities were determined by local disc testing, and MICs were determined at the reference laboratory, both interpreted using BSAC guidelines. bla(CTX-M) genes were sought by PCR, and isolates were compared by PFGE. RESULTS: In the years 2004 and 2005, 69 E. coli were submitted by Truro (Cornwall) laboratory for reference laboratory testing: these included 14 gentamicin-resistant, ESBL-negative isolates; 45 with group 1 CTX-M enzymes; seven with group 9 CTX-M enzymes; and three with non-CTX-M ESBLs. By PFGE, nine gentamicin-resistant, ESBL-negative E. coli were distinct (<85% similarity) from all the ESBL producers, but three were related to producers of group 1 CTX-M enzymes, and two isolates were related to a non-CTX-M ESBL producer. An outbreak strain was identified, represented by 11 gentamicin-resistant and one gentamicin-susceptible isolates, all with group 1 CTX-M enzymes, and two gentamicin-resistant, ESBL-negative isolates. This was distinct by PFGE from nationally distributed CTX-M-producing strains. Five of nine patients infected with this strain had been on the same ward in a local hospital; four presented with community-onset UTIs; one inpatient developed a hospital-acquired bacteraemia. Of the other four patients presenting with community-onset UTIs, three were admitted to different hospitals and the fourth had only attended an outpatient clinic. CONCLUSIONS: Community-onset, ESBL-producing and non-producing E. coli were diverse. Two ESBL-negative isolates were closely related to a local CTX-M-producing outbreak strain, suggesting gain or loss of a bla(CTX-M)-carrying plasmid. An outbreak strain was linked with prior hospital admission and appeared not to represent genuine community acquisition.

Community-Acquired Infections↗

Determination of the in vivo pharmacodynamic profile of cefepime against extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli at various inocula.

Cefepime was evaluated in vivo against two inoculum sizes of four strains of Escherichia coli that produced extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) in a murine neutropenic thigh infection model to characterize the pharmacodynamic activity of cefepime in the presence of ESBL-producing bacteria and to evaluate if differences in lengths of cefepime exposure are required with various inocula. Three strains possessed a single enzyme each: TEM-10, TEM-12, and TEM-26. The fourth strain possessed two TEM-derived ESBLs and a third uncharacterized enzyme. Two non-ESBL-producing E. coli strains were included for comparison. Mice received various doses of cefepime to achieve a spectrum of percentages of time the drug was above the MIC (%T>MICs) for each isolate at both inocula. No significant difference in cefepime exposure was required to achieve similar bactericidal effects for ESBL- and non-ESBL-producing isolates when the starting inoculum was 10(5) CFU of E. coli per thigh. The increased MICs observed in vitro for the ESBL-producing strains at 10(7) CFU/ml did not predict the amount of exposure required to achieve a comparable level of bactericidal activity in vivo at the corresponding starting inoculum of 10(7) CFU/thigh. Compared to the cefepime exposure in tests with the lower inoculum (10(5) CFU/thigh), less exposure was required when the starting inoculum was 10(7) CFU/thigh (%T>MIC, 6% versus 26%), such that similar doses (in milligrams per kilogram of body weight) produced similar bactericidal effects with both inocula of ESBL-producing isolates. Equivalent exposures of cefepime produced similar effects against the microorganisms regardless of the presence of ESBL production. Pharmacodynamic profiling undertaken with conventional cefepime MIC determinations predicted in vivo microbial outcomes at both inoculum sizes for the ESBL-producing isolates evaluated in this study. These data support the use of conventional MIC determinations in the pharmacodynamic assessment of cefepime.

Animals↗

Occurrence and detection of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases in members of the family Enterobacteriaceae at a veterans medical center: seek and you may find.

A total of 907 consecutive isolates of members of the family Enterobacteriaceae recovered during a 20-week period were tested for production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) by the double-disk (DD) potentiation method. Of 84 DD-positive isolates, 83 (9.2%) produced ESBLs based on isoelectric focusing. SHV-derived ESBLs and several TEM-derived ESBLs were present in nine species, including the first isolate of Citrobacter koserii and Morganella morganii known to harbor an SHV-derived ESBL. Results of testing 58 nonrepeat isolates for ESBL production by several recommended methods were as follows (percent detected in parentheses): DD method with aztreonam (95), ceftazidime (79), ceftriaxone (88), or cefpodoxime (90); broth microdilution method with ceftazidime (86) or cefotaxime (91) alone or in combination with clavulanate; and the standard disk diffusion method with new breakpoints and standard concentrations of aztreonam (78), ceftazidime (79), ceftriaxone (83), or cefpodoxime (98) or a novel concentration (5 microg) of ceftazidime (88). In three instances during an extended part of the study, an ESBL-producing isolate and a non-ESBL-producing isolate of the same species were recovered from a single blood culture bottle. These data indicate that ESBLs occur in several species of Enterobacteriaceae and at a relatively high incidence at our institution and that the standard disk diffusion method with cefpodoxime and the DD method with several beta-lactams are practical and cost-effective methods for detecting ESBL-producing isolates of Enterobacteriaceae.

Aztreonam↗

Comparison of screening methods for detection of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases and their prevalence among blood isolates of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp. in a Belgian teaching hospital.

Using a set of 33 well-defined extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing strains of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, we compared three screening methods for ESBL detection: (i) a double-disk synergy test, (ii) a three-dimensional test (both the double-disk synergy test and the three-dimensional test were performed with ceftriaxone, ceftazidime, aztreonam, and cefepime), and (iii) the Etest ESBL screen (AB Biodisk, Solna, Sweden), based on the recognition of a reduction in the ceftazidime MIC in the presence of clavulanic acid. In the double-disk test, all four indicator antibiotics scored equally and 31 of the 33 reference strains were recognized. In the three-dimensional test, ceftriaxone was the only satisfactory indicator and 30 ESBL-positive strains were detected by this antibiotic. Both systems produced two false-positive results with cefepime. With the Etest ESBL screen, 15 of 16 TEM-related and 11 of 16 SHV-related ESBL-producing strains scored positive. In 10 cases the clavulanic acid on one end of the strip interfered with the MIC determination for ceftazidime, which was read on the opposite end. This MIC had to be determined with an extra ceftazidime-only strip. No false-positive results were noted. Eighty-six blood isolates of E. coli and Klebsiella species were screened for ESBL expression by the double-disk and three-dimensional tests, both with ceftriaxone. Six strains with suspicious antibiogram phenotypes also gave positive results by the double-disk test. One E. coli strain remained undetected by the three-dimensional test. Identification of the enzymes suspected of being ESBLs by isoelectric focusing (all strains) and DNA sequencing (1 strain) confirmed the screening test results except for one Klebsiella oxytoca strain, which proved to be a hyperproducer of its chromosomal enzyme and which also had a negative Etest score. The five true ESBL producers were all confirmed by the Etest ESBL screen. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis proved that the E. coli strains were unrelated, but that two of the three K. pneumoniae strains were closely related.

Aztreonam↗

Occurrence and phenotypic characteristics of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases among members of the family Enterobacteriaceae at the Tel-Aviv Medical Center (Israel) and evaluation of diagnostic tests.

We assessed the prevalence and phenotypic characteristics of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producers among cefuroxime-resistant (CXM-R) (MIC > or = 32 micro g/ml) members of the family Enterobacteriaceae in our institution. The 438 CXM-R clinical isolates obtained from nonurine sources among inpatients were screened. ESBL production was confirmed by disk diffusion assay using cefpodoxime (CPD), cefotaxime (CTX), and ceftazidime (CTZ) with and without clavulanate (CLAV). A difference of > or =5 mm in the size of the zone of inhibition in the presence of CLAV for at least one of the agents was considered representative of the ESBL phenotype: 186 isolates (42.5%) were confirmed as ESBL producers. The isolates tested and the rates of ESBL producers were as follows: Klebsiella spp. (n = 81), 79%; Proteus spp. (n = 58), 62%; Escherichia coli (n = 64), 53%; Enterobacter spp. (n = 69), 42%; Serratia spp. (n = 70), 14%; Citrobacter spp. (n = 25), 24%; Providencia spp. (n = 21), 24%; Morganella spp. (n = 41), 5%; and Kluyvera (n = 3), 0%. The overall sensitivity of isolated ESBL confirmatory tests was 79% for CPD-CLAV, 66% for CTZ-CLAV, and 91% for CTX-CLAV. Sensitivities of CTZ-CLAV confirmatory tests for Klebsiella spp., Proteus spp., E. coli, and Enterobacter spp. were 84, 22, 76, and 62%, respectively, and those for CTX-CLAV were 95, 97, 94, and 83%, respectively. They were 90% for CPD-CLAV and CTZ-CLAV, 95% for CPD-CLAV and CTX-CLAV, and 100% for CTZ-CLAV and CTX-CLAV. ESBL production was highly prevalent among Enterobacteriaceae. Using resistance to CXM as an ESBL screening criterion is a suitable option in high-incidence areas where Klebsiella spp. are not the dominant ESBL producers. This screening criterion may simplify the screening test and improve its sensitivity, although at the price of testing more isolates. The CTX-CLAV combination confirmed ESBL producers better than the CTZ-CLAV combination, with sensitivity varying between species. Combined CTZ-CLAV and CTX-CLAV testing detected all these strains; CPD-CLAV provided no additional benefit.

Anti-Bacterial Agents↗

Outbreak of infection caused by Enterobacter cloacae producing the novel VEB-3 beta-lactamase in China.

Over a 4-month period from November 2002 to February 2003, 27 ceftazidime-resistant or cefotaxime-resistant nonrepetitive Enterobacter cloacae isolates were collected from 27 patients hospitalized at HuaShan Hospital, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. The Etest did not detect extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) in those 27 isolates; however, screening by the NCCLS ESBL disk test and confirmatory tests detected ESBLs in 4 of 27 isolates and PCR detected ESBLs in 23 of 27 isolates. The majority of ESBL producers exhibited the same repetitive extragenic palindromic PCR pattern but harbored different ESBL genes. CTX-M-3 was the most prevalent ESBL in our study. Interestingly, 12 clonally related E. cloacae isolates possessed a novel bla(VEB)-type beta-lactamase, bla(VEB-3). Bla(VEB-3) was encoded by the chromosome and was located in an integron. Nine of the 12 isolates harbored both the bla(VEB-3) and the bla(CTX-M-3)-like ESBLs. This is the first report of a VEB-1-like ESBL in China and the first report of the simultaneous presence of VEB-1 and CTX-M-3-like ESBLs in an isolate.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Trends in production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases among enterobacteria of medical interest: report of the second Italian nationwide survey.

Results of a 2003 survey carried out in Italy to evaluate the prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing enterobacteria are presented. Eleven Italian Microbiology Laboratories investigated 9,076 consecutive nonreplicate isolates (inpatients, 6,850; outpatients, 2,226). ESBL screening was performed by MIC data analysis. Confirmation was obtained using the double-disk synergy test and the combination disk test based on CLSI methodology. ESBL determinants were investigated by colony blot hybridization and confirmed by sequencing. Results were compared to those of the 1999 Italian survey (8,015 isolates). The prevalence of ESBL producers was 7.4% among isolates from inpatients (in 1999, 6.3%) and 3.5% among outpatients (no data were available for 1999). Among hospitalized patients, the most prevalent ESBL-positive species was Escherichia coli (Klebsiella pneumoniae in 1999). Proteus mirabilis was the most prevalent ESBL-positive species among outpatients. In both groups, most ESBL-positive pathogens were obtained from urinary tract infections. TEM-type ESBLs were the most prevalent enzymes (45.4%). Non-TEM, non-SHV determinants emerged: CTX-M-type in E. coli and K. pneumoniae, and PER-type in P. mirabilis, Providencia spp., and E. coli. With the exception of 3/163 P. mirabilis isolates and 1/44 Providencia stuartii isolate (all of which were intermediate for imipenem), carbapenems were active against all ESBL-positive enterobacteria. Susceptibility to other drugs was as follows: 84.7% for amikacin, 84.4% for piperacillin-tazobactam, 48.0% for gentamicin, and 32.8% for ciprofloxacin. Carbapenems appear to be the drug of choice. Amikacin and beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations represent an alternative in non-life-threatening infections. The appearance of ESBL-positive enterobacteria in the community makes it mandatory that family physicians learn how to treat these pathogens.

Data Collection↗

Extended spectrum beta-lactamases among Gram-negative bacteria of nosocomial origin from an intensive care unit of a tertiary health facility in Tanzania.

BACKGROUND: Resistance to third generation cephalosporins due to acquisition and expression of extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) enzymes among Gram-negative bacteria is on the increase. Presence of ESBL producing organisms has been reported to significantly affect the course and outcome of an infection. Therefore infections due to ESBL isolates continue to pose a challenge to infection management worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the existence and to describe phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of ESBLs in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) setting in Tanzania. METHODS: Between October 2002 and April 2003, clinical information and samples were collected from patients suspected to have nosocomial infections in an Intensive Care Unit of a tertiary hospital in Tanzania. The isolates were identified, tested for antimicrobial susceptibility and analysed for presence of ESBL genes. RESULTS: Thirty-nine Gram-negative bacteria were isolated from clinical samples of 39 patients. These isolates included 13 Escherichia coli, 12 Enterobacter spp, 5 Pseudomonas spp, 4 Proteus spp, 2 Klebsiella. pneumoniae, 2 Citrobacter freundii and 1 Chryseomonas luteola. Eleven (28.2%) of these isolates were ESBL producing. The ESBL genes characterised were SHV-12, SHV-28 and CTX-M-15. The ESBL producing isolates were more resistant to gentamicin and ciprofloxacin than non-ESBL producing isolates. CONCLUSION: This study shows the presence of ESBL genes among Gram-negative bacteria in the ICU setting in Tanzania. There is a need to institute strict hospital infection control policy and a regular surveillance of resistance to antimicrobial agents.

Anti-Bacterial Agents↗

[Clinical analysis of nosocomial infection of extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing bacteria].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical characteristics of nosocomial infection of extended spectrum beta-lactamase(ESBL)- producing bacteria. METHODS: The data of 50 cases of ESBL(+) E. coli and K. pneumonia from January to November 1999 in Peking Union Medical Hospital were analysed; 45 cases of ESBL (-) infection were randomly selected as controls. t-test and chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Long time hospitalization and use of the third generation cephalosporins were risk factors for ESBL(+) pathogen infection(P < 0.02); the prevalence of ESBL(+) bacteria infection in abdominal and pelvic cavity was higher than that of ESBL(-) bacteria(P < 0.02); the outcome of properly treated group(sensitive antibiotics were used within 72 hours) was much better than improperly treated group. All ESBL(+) bacteria were sensitive to imipenam, the resistance rate of ESBL(+) bacteria to cefmetazole, amikacin and piperacillin/tazobactam was low; the in vitro activity of ceftazidim to ESBL(+) bacteria was high but the in vivo activity is still under study. CONCLUSION: The mortality of ESBL(+) bacteria infection was high; the outcome would be improved if sensitive antibiotics were chosen as soon as the diagnosis was made.

Anti-Bacterial Agents↗

[The expression of AmpC and extended-spectrum beta-lactamases among clinical isolates of enterobacter cloacae and its impact on antibiotics susceptibility].

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the expression of AmpC beta-lactamases and ESBL among clinical isolates of E. cloacae and its impact on antibiotic susceptibility. METHODS: Antibiotic susceptibility was determined by standard agar dilution procedures. beta-lactamases of the isolates with decreased susceptibilities to ceftazidime, cefotaxime, ceftriaxon or aztreonam were investigated by three-dimensional extract tests, isoelectric focusing overlay technique, conjugation experiments and PCR. RESULTS: Among 106 E. cloacae isolates, 16.0% produced only high-level AmpC beta-lactamases, 10.4% produced only ESBL, 13.2% produced both high-level AmpC beta-lactamases and ESBL. 18 isolates (17.0%) carried CTX-M-type ESBL and 7 isolates (6.6%) carried SHV-type ESBL. All carbapenems showed high activity against E. cloacae strains (MIC90 <or= 2 micro g/ml). More than 70% of the isolates producing only high-level AmpC beta-lactamases were susceptible to cefepime, amikacin, gentamicin or ciprofloxacin. More than 60% of the isolates producing only ESBL were susceptible to piperacillin/tazobactam, cefoperazone/sulbactam, ciprofloxacin or amikacin. The susceptible rates of the isolates producing both high-level AmpC beta-lactamases and ESBL to tested antimicrobial agents other than carbapenems were all lower than 25%. CONCLUSION: CTX-M-type ESBL was prevalent among clinical isolates of E. cloacae. Resistance to expanded-spectrum cephalosporins in E. cloacae was mediated not only by AmpC beta-lactamases but also by ESBL. Expression of ESBL in high-level AmpC beta-lactamases producing strains resulted in a significant rise in resistance level.

Anti-Bacterial Agents↗