What is extended spectrum beta-lactamase positive means?
What is extended spectrum beta-lactamase positive means?
What is an ESBL infection? ESBL stands for extended spectrum beta-lactamase. It’s an enzyme found in some strains of bacteria. ESBL-producing bacteria can’t be killed by many of the antibiotics that doctors use to treat infections, like penicillins and some cephalosporins. This makes it harder to treat.
What qualifies as ESBL?
A commonly used working definition is that, ESBLs are β-lactamases capable of conferring bacterial resistance to the penicillins; first-, second- and third-generation cephalosporins; and aztreonam (but not the cephamycins or carbapenems) by hydrolysis of these antibiotics, and which are inhibited by β-lactamase …
How do you test for extended spectrum beta-lactamase?
Many tests have been recommended for the detection of ESBL production in vitro. The most commonly used methods include double disc synergy test, combined disc method and E-test. Several automated systems have also been developed for detection and some laboratories use molecular methods for detection of ESBL phenomenon.
Why is ESBL a problem?
There is no doubt that ESBL-producing organisms are of enormous clinical and microbiological significance. Such bacteria are associated with severe infections such as bacteraemias, intra-abdominal infection, urinary tract infections (particularly in the community setting), and respiratory tract infections [15].
How is ESBL infection treated?
How are these infections treated? Infections caused by ESBL-producing germs are treated with antibiotics, but because they are resistant to many commonly prescribed antibiotics, treatment options might be limited. People with these infections sometimes need to be hospitalized for treatment with IV antibiotics.
Can you live with ESBL?
Most ESBL infections can be treated successfully once your doctor has found a medication that can stop the resistant bacteria. After your infection is treated, your doctor will likely give you good hygiene practices. These can help ensure you don’t develop any other infections that can also resist antibiotics.
