Prevalence of Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase among Gram-negative Bacteria Isolated from Surgical Wound and Blood Stream Infections in Benin City, Nigeria

Objectives: To determining the prevalence of extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing Gram negative bacteria (ESBL) from surgical wound and blood stream infections in a teaching hospital where third generation cephalosporins are used as blind therapy. Methods: The presence of ESBL was determined among 806 Gram negative bacilli from surgical wound (765) and blood infections (41) using double disc synergy method. Disc susceptibility test was also performed on all isolates using standard techniques. Results: Gram negative bacteria isolated from blood (14.6%) had a significantly higher prevalence of ESBL producers compared with isolates from surgical wounds (14.6% vs 2.1% respectively; OR: 8.0, 95% CI: 3.0-21.8, P < 0.0001). Bacterial isolates that produced ESBL were more resistant to the antibacterials used compared with non- ESBL producers. Conclusions: An overall prevalence of 2.7% of ESBL producing Gram-negative bacteria was observed and isolates from blood were 3 to 22-fold more likely to produce ESBL. Prudent use of antibiotics is advocated.