Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacilli

(MDR-GNB)

Gram-negative bacilli are extremely common in healthcare settings, where they can either colonize or infect patients.  In recent years, multidrug-resistant gram-negative organisms have increased in nearly all healthcare settings. Resistance mainly occurs against the extended spectrum beta-lactam antimicrobial agents, such as the penicillins, cephalosporins, and monobactams.  This is mainly due to the ability of these organisms to produce extended spectrum beta lactamase enzymes (ESBLs). The most common MDR-GNB are Klebsiella, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and other Enterobacteriaceae.  Enterobacteriaceae are a large group of organism found in normal human intestines.  MDR-GNB can pose serious risks to patients and may warrant intensified infection control measures.

Significant MDR-GNB:

·        Acinetobacter baumannii

·        Klebsiella pneumoniae and other Carbapenem-Resistance Enterobacteriaceae (CRE)