Use of an Enrichment Broth Improves Detection of Extended-Spectrum-Beta-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae in Clinical Stool Samples

This study evaluated the impact of preenrichment on the detection of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E) in clinical stool samples. ESBL-E were detected in 41 of 343 patients (12.0%). As 31.7% of the ESBL-E carriers were identified by preenrichment, only this additional diagnostic step significantly improved the detection of ESBL-E.