Publication Details
Abstract
Extended spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) are enzymes encoded by mobile genes that confer resistance to many antibiotics by hydrolyzing cephalosporins and penicillins. Infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria like Acinetobacter baumannii, which can produce ESBLs, pose significant treatment challenges and are linked to increased morbidity and mortality. However, data on ESBL-producing A. baumannii in clinical specimens remains limited. This study aimed to identify A. baumannii isolates from clinical samples and assess their antibiotic resistance, particularly ESBL production. One hundred clinical specimens collected between October 2023 and May 2024 were cultured and analyzed using biochemical assays. Sixteen A. baumannii isolates were identified, with only two producing ESBLs. These ESBL-producing isolates showed high resistance to multiple antibiotics, including amoxicillin (100%) and cefotaxime (87.5%). The findings highlight the critical need for vigilant infection control and antibiotic stewardship to prevent the spread of multidrug-resistant A. baumannii in clinical settings.