Prevalence of Metallo-beta-lactamase in Gram negative uropathogens from a Tertiary Care rural Hospital

Metallo-beta-lactamases (MBLs) production in Gram negative bacilli is a major cause of concern among hospital associated urinary tract infection and is being increasingly reported worldwide. The bacteria having MBL has the potential to spread rapidly within the hospital environment and also across continents posing both therapeutic and control management problem. In recent years, MBL genes have spread from P. aeruginosa to members of the Enterobacteriaceae. So the present study was carried out with the aim to know the prevalence of MBLs in Gram negative bacteria from uropathogens and the antimicrobial resistant pattern of MBL. Total of 144 Gram negative bacteria were randomly selected. This isolates were tested for carbapenem resistance and MBL production by phenotypic method. Of 144 Gram negative bacilli isolated from urine, Carbapenem resistance was observed in 20(13.89%). Of these 12(8.33%) were from Enterobacteriaceae and 8(38.09%) from P. aeruginosa. A total of 7(4.86%) isolates were metallo-beta-lactamases producer in Gram negative bacilli, 6(4.17%) were from P. aeruginosa and 1(0.69%) from Enterobacteriaceae. None of the isolates of E. coli, Proteus sps and Citrobacter sps were metallo-beta-lactamases producer. Out of 6 MBL producing P. aeruginosa, 4(66.67%) were from ICU and 2(33.33%) from postoperative patient. One isolate of K. pneumonaie was from ICU. Statistical significance was seen in MBL producers from females (57.14%) and males (42.86%) respectively. MBL isolates showed higher antimicrobial resistance as compared to non-MBL. Conclusion: The prevalence of 4.86% MBL in Gram negative bacilli is a major cause of concern. Timely detection and judicious use of antibiotic can help in confronting the menace of antibiotic resistance.