Related Experiment Videos
Ampicillin-resistant Escherichia coli in gestational pyelonephritis: increased occurrence and association with the
A Hart1, B J Nowicki, B Reisner
1Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA.
Abstract:
The pattern of ampicillin resistance and possible association with virulence factors of 78 Escherichia coli isolates taken from 78 pregnant women with pyelonephritis were evaluated. The current incidence of ampicillin resistance among pyelonephritis isolates (46%) was significantly higher than that reported in 1985 (22%). Resistance was found more frequently during the first (60%) and third (53%) trimesters than during the second trimester (33%). Of all dra(+) E. coli isolates, 75% were ampicillin resistant, whereas dra(+) isolates of O75 serotype E. coli accounted for 87% of ampicillin-resistant strains. The significant increase of ampicillin resistance among gestational pyelonephritis E. coli and the association with the dra gene cluster encoding colonization and invasive capacity may warrant further study involving obstetric and neonate wards, with the latter being at the higher risk for potential problems.
Insights
Ampicillin resistance in Escherichia coli from pregnant women with pyelonephritis has increased significantly. This resistance is linked to virulence factors, particularly the dra gene cluster, posing potential risks during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Pyelonephritis during pregnancy is a significant concern.
- Escherichia coli is a common cause of urinary tract infections, including pyelonephritis.
- Antibiotic resistance in uropathogens poses a growing threat to maternal and neonatal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate ampicillin resistance patterns in Escherichia coli isolates from pregnant women with pyelonephritis.
- To investigate the association between ampicillin resistance and specific virulence factors, including the dra gene cluster.
- To compare current resistance rates with historical data.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 78 Escherichia coli isolates from pregnant women diagnosed with pyelonephritis.
- Determination of ampicillin resistance prevalence.
- Investigation of the presence and association of the dra gene cluster and O75 serotype with ampicillin resistance.
Main Results:
- Ampicillin resistance in pyelonephritis-causing E. coli has risen to 46%, a significant increase from 22% in 1985.
- Resistance rates varied by trimester: 60% in the first, 33% in the second, and 53% in the third.
- 75% of dra(+) E. coli isolates were ampicillin resistant, and 87% of ampicillin-resistant strains belonged to the O75 serotype carrying the dra gene cluster.
Conclusions:
- A significant increase in ampicillin resistance among E. coli causing gestational pyelonephritis has been observed.
- The dra gene cluster, associated with virulence, is linked to ampicillin resistance in these isolates.
- Further research is recommended for obstetric and neonatal wards due to potential risks, especially for neonates.