The Continuing Plague of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase Producing Enterbacterales Infections: An Update

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance is a common iatrogenic complication of modern life and medical care. One of the most demonstrative examples is the exponential increase in the incidence of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) production among Enterobacteriaceae, that is, the most common human pathogens outside of the hospital setting. Infections resulting from ESBL-producing bacteria are associated with devastating outcomes, now affecting even previously healthy individuals. This poses an enormous burden and threat to public health. This article aims to narrate the evolving epidemiology of ESBL infections and highlights current challenges in terms of management and prevention of these common infections.

Keywords: Escherichia coli; Gram-negative; Klebsiella pneumoniae; MDRO; Proteus mirabilis.