Phenotypic detection of metallo-β-lactamases in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii isolated from hospitalized patients in São Luis, State of Maranhão, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Acquired metallo-β-lactamases (MβL) are emerging determinants of resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii. The objectives of this study were to phenotypically detect MβL in imipenem-resistant P. aeruginosa and A. baumannii, to investigate the association between MβL-positive strains and hospitals, and to compare the resistance profiles of MβL-producing and non-MβL-producing strains. Methods: The approximation disk and combined disk assay methods were used in this study. Results: A total of 18 (38.3%) P. aeruginosa isolates and 1 (5.6%) A. baumannii isolate tested positive for the presence of MβL. Conclusions: These results demonstrate the need for strict surveillance and for the adoption of preventive measures to reduce the spread of infection and potential outbreaks of disease caused by MβL-producing microorganisms.