Comparison of Sensitivity and Specificity of Double Disc Synergy Test and Disc Replacement Method in Detecting Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase Producing Escherichia coli From Livestock and Herders

Sensitivity and specificity are statistical measures used to evaluate the performance of diagnostic tests, including phenotypic screening tests. The emergence and dissemination of extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing bacteria of food-animals and humans origin are responsible for numerous infections with challenging treatment and control measures which calls for considerable concern of both Medical and Veterinary practitioners globally. The aim of this study was to detect phenotypically, the ESBL production by E. coli from Livestock and Herders with view to evaluating the sensitivity and specificity of two different ESBL phenotypic screening tests. Out of the 181 (15.7%) samples that yielded positive growths, 111 (61.3%) of them were E. coli isolates and of these, 91 (81.9%) were multidrug resistant out of which 37(40.7%) and 20 (22.0%) were phenotypically detected as ESBL producing phenotypes by DDST and DRM protocols respectively. This study revealed significant difference (P < 0.05) between the two phenotypic methods. Calves, lambs and terminally aged cattle / sheep as well as young herders / terminally aged herders in closed–proximity to their livestock and those living in over-crowded environment were mostly infected by the ESBL producing E. coli. Therefore, proper herd size and sanitary measures be adopted and maintained in farms where calves and Lambs less than 1 year are kept. Herders, below 10 years old and terminally old herders be properly monitored and those with diarrhoea be promptly treated. Herders with known history of prolonged hospitalization be examined for nosocomial infections by ESBL producing bacteria for better management.