Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases [ESBLs]: a global problem

ABSTRACT

Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases [ESBL[s]] constitute a growing class of plasmid-mediated beta-lactamases which confer resistance to broad spectrum beta-lactam antibiotics. They are commonly expressed by Enterobacteriaceae but the species of organisms producing these enzymes are increasing and this is a cause for great concern. The prevalence of ESBL - producing organisms is increasing worldwide and several outbreaks have been reported. Serious infections with these organisms are associated with high mortality rates as therapeutic options are limited. The emergence of ESBLs creates a real challenge for both clinical microbiology laboratories and clinicians because of their dynamic evolution and epidemiology, wide substrate specificity with its therapeutic implications, their significant diagnostic challenges and their prevention and infection control issues. The aim of this review is to increase awareness about this serious antibiotic resistance threat