Antibiotic Susceptibility pattern of Klebsiella pneumoniae in a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Klebsiella pneumoniae belongs to the Gram-negative bacterium family, commonly implicated in both hospital-acquired and community-acquired infections, particularly in individuals with
compromised immune systems. Its range of infections includes those affecting the urinary tract, respiratory tract, lower biliary tract, soft tissues, bloodstream, surgical wounds, and liver. Notably, it exhibits resistance to various antibiotics, including penicillins, cephalosporins, and
monobactams such as aztreonam, due to the presence of extended-spectrum β-lactamases
(ESBLs). Moreover, it produces carbapenemases, a type of β-lactamase capable of hydrolyzing
penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems, and monobactams, categorized under Ambler groups A and D. The emergence of these enzyme-producing bacteria significantly complicates treatment, rendering beta-lactam antibiotics ineffective in serious Enterobacteriaceae, lacking an outer envelope. It poses a significant threat as an opportunistic pathogen infections. Contributing to the challenge of combating drug resistance, factors such as antibiotic overuse and easy accessibility to antibiotics are prevalent issues, particularly in developing countries like India.