Microbiology of Klebsiella with extended-spectrum β-lactamases production

Extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) producing Klebsiella represents one of the greatest challenges in therapeutic management of the patients. Hence, the objective was to determine ESBL producing Klebsiella species and its molecular characterization in clinical samples of tertiary-care hospital. Klebsiella isolated from various samples were included and by using disc diffusion method ESBL detection amongst the Klebsiella isolates along with molecular detection of blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTX-M genes which are associated with ESBL production was done. Results revealed that out of 3194 samples, 200 Klebsiella species were isolated. The ratio of Klebsiella species isolated from inpatient and outpatient departments was 75.5% and 24.5% respectively. The maximum isolates were obtained from men consisting of 57.50% and aged between 31-40 years with 26.50%. Majorly Klebsiella species were isolated from sputum including 30.5%, followed by urine consisting of 28% and pus samples with 19.5%. From the 200 isolates, 197 were Klebsiella pneumonia and 32.5% were ESBL producers with majorly having the blaTEM gene incorporated. Being Multidrug and Pan-drug resistant, Klebsiella with ESBL strains are a threat to mankind. This can be overcome by adhering to strict hospital policies to avoid irrational use of antibiotics, strictly following institutional and National antibiotic policies and by prescribing antibiotics according to the culture and sensitivity reports.