Class 1 Integron in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates From Different Places and Devices of ICU in Babol, Iran

Abstract

Background: Antibiotic resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as one of the most important pathogens commonly implicated in nosocomial infections, has been increased in recent years, moreover the presence of integrons and the associated resistance gene cassettes is well established. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to ascertain the presence and spread of class 1 integrons amongst environmental isolates of P. aeruginosa from Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as well as its association with drug resistance. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 33 P. aeruginosa, isolated from different places and devices used in ICU at Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Babol, north of Iran, from 2008 to 2009. Antibiotic susceptibility profiles and minimum inhibitory concentration against 12 antibacterial agents were performed by micro dilution and disk diffusion methods. The detection of class 1 integron was performed by the PCR method. The demographic and microbiological data between the integron positive and negative isolates were compared with SPSS software. Results: Thirteen of 33 (39.4%) of P. aeruginosa had intl gene, among which 24.2% were characterized as multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa (MDRPA) on the other hand, 15.2% showed intermediate or complete sensitivity . No significant differences were seen between the presence of integron gene and resistance to the antibiotics except for ofloxacin. Most resistance was observed in cefepime (100%) and the lowest to ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin (42.5%). Conclusions: The result of this study showed a high prevalence of class 1 integron gene in most P. aeruginosa strains isolated from different parts of the environment and equipment used in ICU. The role of these transferable genetic agents has been proven in the creation of resistance. So, the environmental bacteria represent a reservoir for dissemination of clinically relevant multidrug-resistant antibiotics and should be taken under control to reduce the appearance or distribution of these antibiotic resistant agents.