Characterization of Multidrug Resistant Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-ProducingEscherichia coliamong Uropathogens of Pediatrics in North of Iran

Abstract

Escherichia coliremains as one of the most important bacteria causing infections in pediatrics and producing extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) making them resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics. In this study we aimed to genotype ESBL-producingE. coliisolates from pediatric patients for ESBL genes and determine their association with antimicrobial resistance. One hundred of theE. coliisolates were initially considered ESBL producing based on their MIC results. These isolates were then tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence or absence ofCTX,TEM,SHV,GES, andVEBbeta-lactamase genes. About 30.5% of isolatedE. coliwas ESBL-producing strain. TheTEMgene was the most prevalent (49%) followed bySHV(44%),CTX(28%),VEB(8%), andGES(0%) genes. The ESBL-producingE. coliisolates were susceptible to carbapenems (66%) and amikacin (58%) and showed high resistance to cefixime (99%), colistin (82%), and ciprofloxacin (76%). In conclusion, carbapenems were the most effective antibiotics against ESBl-producingE. coliin urinary tract infection in North of Iran. The most prevalent gene is the TEM-type, but the other resistant genes and their antimicrobial resistance are on the rise.