Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) detection in some uropathogenic bacteria and their correlation with biofilm formation

Abstract

Background and objective: The tolerance of biofilms to antibiotics results in the dissemination of resistance. Many of the recurrent urinary tract infections are assumed to be caused by biofilm producing uropathogenic isolates. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the ability of biofilm formation and extended spectrum beta lactamase producing uropathogens. Methods: A total of 438 urine specimens were collected from Rizgary Teaching hospital in Erbil, Iraq, from September to December 2017. Extended spectrum beta lactamase was determined using the Vitek-2 automated system and confirmed by using the combination disk diffusion test. Biofilm formation was checked using 96-well flat bottom microtiter plates. Results: Out of the 438 urine specimens, only 37.89% (n =166) developed an infection, the most common isolate was Escherichia coli. The distribution of the bacterial species according to the patients' gender found to be significant (P = 0.014). The proportion of betalactamase producing isolates was 29% (n = 31). The strength of biofilm formation among Klebsiella species was significantly higher than in Escherichia coli (P <0.001), while a non-significant difference (P = 0.163) was observed between beta lactamase production and ability of biofilm formation. The sensitivity and specificity of VITEK-2 in the detection of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase were 79.48% and 80.95%, respectively. Conclusion: The study revealed that Klebsiellae species were stronger biofilm producers. Beta lactamase producing isolates do not have a greater ability of biofilm formation.