Higher rates of cefiderocol resistance among NDM producing Klebsiella bloodstream isolates applying EUCAST over CLSI

Burcu Isler1,2, Cansel Vatansever3, Berna Özer3

  • 1UQ Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.

Abstract

Insights

Cefiderocol shows variable activity against carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella spp. (CRK). EUCAST and CLSI criteria yield significantly different resistance rates, especially for NDM producers, impacting patient care.

Area of Science:

  • Clinical microbiology
  • Antimicrobial resistance
  • Infectious diseases

Background:

  • Cefiderocol demonstrates activity against carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella spp. (CRK).
  • Higher minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) are observed for metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM) producers.
  • Discrepancies exist in cefiderocol interpretive criteria between EUCAST and CLSI.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate cefiderocol activity against CRK isolates.
  • To compare cefiderocol susceptibility testing results using EUCAST and CLSI interpretive criteria.

Main Methods:

  • Testing of 254 CRK bloodstream isolates against cefiderocol using disc diffusion.
  • Identification of beta-lactam resistance genes and multilocus sequence types via whole-genome sequencing.

Main Results:

  • Median cefiderocol zone diameter was 24 mm overall and 18 mm for NDM producers.
  • EUCAST criteria classified 26% of isolates and 81% of NDM producers as resistant.
  • CLSI criteria classified 2% of isolates and 12% of NDM producers as resistant.

Conclusions:

  • High cefiderocol resistance rates among NDM producers are noted with EUCAST criteria.
  • Variability in breakpoints impacts clinical interpretation and patient outcomes.
  • Recommends using EUCAST interpretive criteria for cefiderocol susceptibility testing pending further clinical data.