Epidemiology and outcome of bacteremia caused by extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp. in a tertiary care teaching hospital in south India.

Abstract

This study shows a very high ESBL production and resistance to multiple classes of antibiotics, even among patients with community acquired infections caused by Enterobacteriaceae. The empiric use of 3rd and 4th generation cephalosporins should be curtailed, as cephalosporin use was associated with an increased risk of ESBL production. In view of their excellent in-vitro activity, carbapenems should be the initial empiric choice for serious life threatening infections caused by ESBL producing Enterobacteriaceae, with prompt de-escalation when culture and susceptibility results become available.