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Polymicrobial necrotizing fasciitis involving enterobacteria producing CTX-M-15 extended-spectrum β-lactamases

S Soleimanian1, N C Gordon1, D W Wareham2,1

  • 1Division of Infection, Barts & The London NHS Trust, London, UK.

Journal of Medical Microbiology
|September 4, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Necrotizing fasciitis in Nigeria was caused by Gram-negative bacteria. The study identified CTX-M-15 extended-spectrum beta-lactamase genes in these bacteria, signaling its spread in West Africa.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Necrotizing fasciitis is a severe soft tissue infection.
  • Gram-negative bacteria are increasingly recognized as causative agents.
  • Antimicrobial resistance is a growing global health concern.

Observation:

  • A Nigerian patient presented with necrotizing fasciitis.
  • Multiple Gram-negative organisms were isolated from the patient.
  • Specific isolates included Morganella morganii and Citrobacter freundii.

Findings:

  • The isolated Morganella morganii and Citrobacter freundii harbored the CTX-M-15 extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) gene.
  • This finding represents the emergence of CTX-M-15 ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae in West Africa.
  • The study demonstrates the successful dissemination of this resistance gene among diverse bacterial species.

Implications:

  • Highlights the urgent need for surveillance of antimicrobial resistance in West Africa.
  • Underscores the potential for rapid spread of ESBL genes within Gram-negative bacteria.
  • Informs clinical management strategies for severe infections in resource-limited settings.

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