Extended-spectrum β-lactamases: an update on their characteristics, epidemiology and detection

Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Gram- negative pathogens are a major cause of resistance to expanded- spectrum beta-lactam antibiotics. Since their discovery in the early 1980s, they have spread worldwide and an are now endemic in Enterobacterales isolated from both hospital-associated and community- acquired infections. As a result, they are a global public health concern. In the past, TEMand SHV-type ESBLs were the predominant families of ESBLs. Today CTX-M-type enzymes are the most commonly found ESBL type with the CTX-M-15 variant dominating worldwide, followed in prevalence by CTX-M- 14, and CTX-M- 27 is emerging in certain parts of the world. The genes encoding ESBLs are often found on plasmids and harboured within transposons or insertion sequences, which has enabled their spread. In addition, the population of ESBL- producing Escherichia coli is dominated globally by a highly virulent and successful clone belonging to ST131. Today, there are many diagnostic tools available to the clinical microbiology laboratory and include both phenotypic and genotypic tests to detect beta-lactamases. Unfortunately, when ESBLs are not identified in a timely manner, appropriate antimicrobial therapy is frequently delayed, resulting in poor clinical outcomes. Several analyses of clinical trials have shown mixed results with regards to whether a carbapenem must be used to treat serious infections caused by ESBLs or whether some of the older beta-lactam-beta-lactamase combinations such as piperacillin/ tazobactamare appropriate. Some of the newer combinations such as ceftazidime/avibactam have demonstrated efficacy in patients. ESBL-producing Gram-negative pathogens will continue to be major contributor to antimicrobial resistance worldwide. It is essential that we remain vigilant about identifying them both in patient isolates and through surveillance studies.

Automated summary

ESBL-producing Gram-negative pathogens are major contributors to antimicrobial resistance, with CTM-M-15 and ST131 being the most commonly found types. Diagnostic tools play a crucial role in early identification of ESBLs, ultimately impacting clinical outcomes.