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Importance of organisms producing broad-spectrum SHV-group beta-lactamases into the United Kingdom
K P Shannon1, A King, I Phillips
1Department of Microbiology, UMDS, London, UK.
Abstract:
We report the isolation of three strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae sensu lato, brought into the United Kingdom by patients from Greece and Egypt, that showed plasmid-determined resistance to ceftazidime. All three produced beta-lactamases shown by DNA hybridisation studies to belong to the SHV group. One produced an enzyme that appeared to be related to, but distinguishable from, SHV-1; another SHV-2 and the third SHV-5.
Insights
Three Klebsiella pneumoniae strains resistant to ceftazidime were found in the UK. These bacteria produced novel SHV-group beta-lactamases, indicating a potential public health concern for antibiotic resistance.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Klebsiella pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen.
- Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health threat.
- Plasmid-mediated resistance can spread rapidly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize ceftazidime-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strains.
- To identify the beta-lactamases responsible for resistance.
- To investigate the origin of these resistant strains.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and identification of Klebsiella pneumoniae strains.
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
- DNA hybridization studies to identify beta-lactamase genes.
Main Results:
- Three Klebsiella pneumoniae strains resistant to ceftazidime were isolated.
- All strains produced SHV-group beta-lactamases.
- Specific enzymes identified included a novel SHV variant, SHV-2, and SHV-5.
Conclusions:
- The emergence of ceftazidime resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae is a concern.
- SHV-group beta-lactamases play a significant role in this resistance.
- Importation of resistant strains highlights the need for surveillance.