Detection of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli strains producing extended-spectrum β-Lactamases

Abstract

Plasmids encoding extended-spectrum β-lactamases of the TEM, SHV, and AmpC families were introduced into common Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae hosts to create a homogeneous panel for evaluating the abilities of five test systems to detect resistance to eight β-lactam antibiotics. Although MICs, as determined by agar dilution or E test strips, were increased and disk diffusion zone diameters were diminished, breakpoints for resistance were often not reached, and neither approach was sensitive in detecting resistance to oxyimino-β-lactams. The MicroScan 18-h microdilution or Vitek rapid automated procedures were similarly insensitive. Ceftazidime was the best single test antibiotic for detecting extended-spectrum β- lactamase production. β-Lactamases TEM-7 and TEM-12 were particularly difficult to detect. Because of such difficulties, the prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamases is likely to be greater than is currently appreciated.