Detection of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase Producing Escherichia coli from Urinary Tract Infection in General Hospital, Minna

Possession of virulence factors such as extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) by pathogens generally exacerbates morbidity as well as increases healthcare costs. This study determined the production of ESBL among Escherichia coli isolated from the urinary tracts of subjects attending General Hospital, Minna, Nigeria. One hundred and fifty (150) urine samples were collected from subjects and cultured on CLED agar for the isolation of E. coli. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was done using Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method, while the phenotypic identification of ESBL-producing strains was carried out using double disk synergy test. All results were interpreted based on Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. In all, 26 (17.33%) out of the 150 urine samples cultured had E. coli; out of which 23 (88.5%) were subsequently found to be ESBL producers. Among the E. coli isolates, high rates of antibiotic-resistance was observed against nalidixic acid (100%), cefdinir (88.4%), cefotaxime (84.6%) and cefpodoxime (84.6%), while remarkable sensitivity to tarivid (46.1%), ciprofloxacin (38.4%) and gentamicin (34.6%) was also detected. This study has established the involvement of ESBL-producing E. coli in urinary tract infections in the study area. Rational prescription of antibiotics against pathogens generally is highly recommended to halt the spread of resistance. Keywords: Beta-Lactamase; Extended spectrum; Infection; Prescription; Resistance