Detection of Carbapenem Resistant Gram-Negative Bacteria in Clinical Isolates from a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Carbapenem resistance is one of the major threats faced in antimicrobial treatment of infections caused by Gram negative organisms. In India and throughout the world the use of carbapenems has increased resulting in an increased resistance of pathogens to this class of antibiotics. Bacteria are capable enough to become resistant to antibiotics by a number of mechanisms both intrinsic and acquired, most common of which include enzymatic degradation of antibiotics. Carbapenem resistant Gram-negative bacteria usually spreads in the hospital settings to other patients and caregivers or relatives by unwashed hands or from contact with soiled equipment and surfaces such as bedrails, tables, chairs, countertops and door handles. These carriers are the ultimate sources of dissemination in the community. Detection of carbapenems is a crucial infection control issue because they are often associated with extensive antibiotic resistance, treatment failures and infection-associated mortality. The present study was undertaken to determine Carbapenem resistant Gram-negative bacteria in clinical isolates from a tertiary care hospital.