Pathogens
ESBL Organisms

ESBL Organisms

Precautions

Contact Precautions

Susceptibilities

General Information

Gram-negative bacilli with extended spectrum beta-lactamases (“ESBL”), found in the Enterobacterales order.

ESBL plasmids can be found among the normal gastrointestinal flora of healthy individuals. 5 to 15% of Enterobacterales organisms isolated in Ontario hospitals may carry ESBL plasmids.

Global distribution, with higher rates in Asian populations. Risk factors may include:

  • Extensive antimicrobial exposure
  • Prolonged stay in healthcare facilities
  • Travel to areas of high prevalence

Direct (human-to-human) and indirect (environment, food, surfaces) transmission can occur.

See individual organisms for associated syndromes.

ESBL vs. AmpC organisms: most ESBL organisms are plasmid-encoded and constitutively expressed, whereas AmpC organisms are usually inducible and chromosomal (although some may become constitutive or transferable to other organisms).