Emergence of Citrobacter freundii carrying IMP-8 metallo-β-lactamase in Germany

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Antimicrobial Resistance

Background:

• Metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs) are critical enzymes conferring resistance to β-lactam antibiotics.
• Enterobacteriaceae harbouring MBLs pose a significant and increasing global health challenge.
• The IMP-8 MBL variant is primarily endemic to Asia, with limited reports outside this region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the first isolation of the bla IMP-8 gene in Enterobacteriaceae within Europe.
• To document the presence of IMP-8 producing Citrobacter freundii in German patients.
• To highlight the potential spread of this high-risk MBL to new geographical areas.

Main Methods:

• Bacterial isolates were identified using standard microbiological techniques.
• MBL presence was confirmed through phenotypic testing and genotypic analysis.
• The bla IMP-8 gene was detected using molecular methods.

Main Results:

• Three cases of Citrobacter freundii isolates harbouring the bla IMP-8 gene were identified between March 2012 and March 2013 in Germany.
• This represents the first documented instance of bla IMP-8 in Enterobacteriaceae in Europe.
• The findings indicate a potential westward expansion of this MBL.

Conclusions:

• The emergence of IMP-8 producing Enterobacteriaceae in Europe is a serious clinical concern.
• This discovery necessitates enhanced surveillance for MBL-producing bacteria in European healthcare settings.
• Urgent strategies are required to curb the spread of carbapenem resistance.