Mbl Encoding Genes in Gram-negative Eskape Pathogens From the Bloodstream of Icu Covid-19 Patients
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction. Severe COVID-19 cases face high risks of secondary bacterial infections and antimicrobial resistance due to prolonged hospital stays and heavy antibacterial use. Metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs) like VIM (Verona integron-encoded metallo-β-lactamase), IMP (imipenemase), and NDM (New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase) confer broad resistance to β-lactams in Gram-negative ESKAPE pathogens, complicating intensive care unit (ICU) treatments and reducing survival rates. Rapid identification of these infections is crucial for critically ill patients. Objective. The present study investigated β-lactamase genes in Gram-negative ESKAPE strains from COVID-19 ICU patients, focusing on MBL-producing strains. Materials and methods. Blood samples were collected from ICU COVID-19 patients at Kharkiv’s Regional Clinical Infectious Hospital, Ukraine, and analyzed using real-time PCR to detect MBL genes (VIM, IMP, NDM). Results. MBL genes were identified in 43.6% of Gram-negative ESKAPE pathogens. NDM was found in 13.3%, VIM in 28.4%, and IMP in 1.9% of cases. E. coli showed a high incidence of MBL genes, while P. aeruginosa had the highest prevalence (72.2%). This reveals significant resistance levels that complicate ICU treatments. Discussion. The high prevalence of MBL genes underscores the urgent need for advanced infection control and antimicrobial stewardship. Real-time PCR offers a rapid, effective method for identifying resistant strains, allowing healthcare facilities to take timely actions. Conclusions. Carbapenem resistance in ESKAPE pathogens poses a serious challenge in ICU settings. High levels of MBL genes in bacteria like E. coli and P. aeruginosa raise concerns of interspecies resistance spread. Real-time PCR aids swift pathogen identification, essential for managing high-risk patients. Traditional infection control is insufficient; targeted approaches are needed. Agile infection control improves response and safety, helping manage antibiotic resistance.
Language: English
Subfield: Microbiology (medical)
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4407202543