Optimized detection of ESBL producers, carbapenemase producers, and VRE from rectal swabs using enrichment broth for superior screening sensitivity

Abstract

This study evaluates the added value of using enrichment broths for improving the detection of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria—VRE, ESBL producers, and carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPOs)—from rectal swabs. Comparing direct plating to enrichment-based methods significantly increased detection sensitivity, especially for CPOs (from 17 to 27 cases, a 58.8% increase). Detection rates for ESBL producers and VRE also improved significantly (by 20%). Pre-enrichment is therefore a valuable addition to routine MDR bacteria screening protocols, which is particularly useful when high accuracy is needed for prevention and infection control as well as for outbreak management.