Pathogens
ESBL- Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase producing organisms

ESBL- Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase producing organisms

Precautions

Contact Precautions

Susceptibilities

General Information

Gram negative organisms with enzymes that confer resistance to 3rd generation cephalosporins in addition to lower order beta-lactams

Generally, normal GI flora that have a plasmid encoding ESBL

Community-acquired and nosocomial infections occur, especially if received antimicrobials or have travelled to areas of high prevalence (i.e. Asia/India)

Human-to-human transmission occurs and outbreaks have beed described

Can also pick up from environment/water, surfaces, animals, and meat!

Asymptomatic colonization, or any syndrome caused by the organism carrying it (see the organism for list)

ESBLs vs. ampC: Most ESBLs are plasmid-encoded, whereas ampCs are usually inducible and chromosomal

In the lab, ESBLs test susceptible to cefoxitin and cefotetan, and are inhibited by beta-lactamse inhibitors such as tazobactam.