Clinical outcome of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli bacteremia in an area with high endemicity

Abstract

Objectives: This study assessed the impact of discordant empirical antibiotic therapy on the outcome of bacteremia caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli. Methods: The clinical features and outcomes of a cohort of patients hospitalized with ESBL E. coli bacteremia between 2007 and 2008 were retrospectively reviewed. The effect of different antimicrobial regimens on patient outcomes was analyzed. Results: ESBL E. coli accounted for 24.2% (207/857) of E. coli bacteremia cases. The urinary tract (43.6%) was the most common source of infection, followed by the hepatobiliary tract (23.0%). Discordant empirical antibiotic therapy was given to 52.0% patients. Admission to the intensive care unit was associated with the use of a carbapenem as empirical antibiotic therapy (p