Prevalence of various Beta-lactamases in Enterobacteriaceae in a tertiary care hospital in South India: A Cross-sectional study

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance among bacteria has constantly increased over the years with emergence of novel resistance mechanism among these versatile organisms. Identifying the resistance pattern of the isolates both regionally and globally is essential for the institution of appropriate antimicrobial therapy. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of beta-Lactamase enzymes among species of Enterobacteriaceae.312 consecutive isolates belonging to the family of Enterobacteriaceae were included in the study conducted over a period of one year. After preliminary antibiotic susceptibility testing using standard guidelines, production of various beta-Lactamase enzymes was assessed by phenotypic methods.22.76% of the isolates were found to be Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase producers, 37.82% were AmpC Beta-Lactamase producers and 7.37% of the isolates produced the Carbapenemase enzyme.Our study estimates the prevalence of various beta-Lactamase enzymes in isolates of Enterobacteriaceae in a tertiary care centre. The increase in production of these enzymes among bacteria necessitates the implementation of strict adherence to antibiotic policy and infection control measures.