Co-occurrence of Carbapenem Resistance and Biofilm Formation in Clinical Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolates

Introduction: The worldwide emergence of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) has positioned it as a major threat in healthcare environments. Delays in identifying carbapenemase-producing strains, especially in intensive care and neonatal units, can significantly contribute to higher rates of illness and death. This study investigates CRKP isolates using the Triton–Hodge test (THT), compares resistance patterns and evaluates the biofilm-forming capacity of isolates. Material and Methods: Forty-two clinical K. pneumoniae isolates from Sir Sunder Lal Hospital IMS BHU varanasi were examined. Identification was performed using standard microbiological techniques. Carbapenemase detection was done using THT, and confirmed by modified carbapenem inactivation method (mCIM) and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid-carbapenem inactivation method (eCIM). Antibiotic susceptibility was determined by disk diffusion. Minimum inhibitory concentration values were evaluated. Biofilm formation was assessed colorimetrically using the crystal violet assay. Results: Amongst the 42 isolates, 17 (40.48%) were THT-positive. Of these, 94.12% were metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) producers and 5.88% were serine carbapenemase producers. High and medium biofilm formers accounted for 28% and 30%, respectively, whereas 43% were weak formers. None were nonbiofilm formers. High-resistance rates were observed for β-lactams and carbapenems. Conclusion: THT is a useful screening method for carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae . The high prevalence of MBL producers and biofilm-forming capacity amongst isolates highlights the urgent need for rapid diagnostics and stringent antimicrobial stewardship.