Elizabethkingia in the MENA region (2000–2024): a review of distribution, antimicrobial resistance, and clinical features

Abstract

Elizabethkingia is a family of bacteria present in the environment causing infections that have emerged as a significant clinical concern in the Middle East and North Africa region. Despite sporadic reports and case studies, the epidemiology of Elizabethkingia—encompassing its prevalence, antimicrobial resistance profiles, and clinical outcomes—remains largely anecdotal and fragmented. In this review, we systematically screened and analyzed the published literature to provide a comprehensive assessment of the distribution, antibiotic resistance characteristics, and clinical features of Elizabethkingia infections in different samples across the region. Our analysis consolidates existing evidence to highlight the true burden of Elizabethkingia and the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains. By identifying current gaps in data and standardization, this review aims to inform and engage clinicians, microbiologists, epidemiologists, and public health stakeholders in developing coordinated strategies to monitor, prevent, and manage these infections within a One Health framework.