Evaluation of the prevalence of broad-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenemase genes in Klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated from burn wounds in patients referred to Shahid Motahari Hospital in Tehran

Klebsiella species are common causes of nosocomial, ulcers, blood and urinary tract infections, and also acquired pneumonia from the hospital and various intra-abdominal infections. Bacterial resistance mechanisms against antibiotics are different, but one of these resistance mechanisms, which is very problematic, is the production of β-lactamase enzymes in bacteria. The aim of this study was to determine the antibiotic resistance pattern and the presence of beta-lactamase genes in Klebsiella isolated from burn wounds among patients referred to Shahid Motahhari Hospital in Tehran.

100 strains collected for confirmation of production of broad-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) were tested by CDT (Combined Disk Test). Finally, β-lactamase genes were investigated using polymerase chain reaction.

The highest resistance rate was observed to ampicillin (93%). 23% of isolates produced ESBLs. The highest frequency of genes was bla shv gene (26.8%).

The presence of beta-lactamase genes with high antibiotic resistance is very worrying. Since the present genes can spread through mobile genetic elements in bacteria, among bacteria, it is considered to be a serious alert in the treatment of infections caused by Klebsiella.