Molecular Detection of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases in Escherichia coli Isolated from Patients with Urinary Tract Infections

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) have emerged as a significant health concern due to the increasing prevalence of drug-resistant variants, especially those capable of generating extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs), which complicate treatment options. These enzymes degrade beta-lactam antibiotics, limiting therapeutic options for UTIs. Objectives: Our study aimed to isolation and identification of Escherichia coli isolated from individuals diagnosed with urinary tract infections, testing antimicrobial susceptibility of isolated Escherichia coli isolates associated with urinary tract infections, phenotypic identification of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases isolated from urine samples and molecular identification of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases isolated from urine samples. Methodology: An overall number of 210 urine samples was acquired from patients suffering from UTIs. Of these, 115 bacterial isolates were confirmed to be E. coli. Susceptibility to antimicrobial agents was evaluated using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, combination disc test, double disc synergy test, genotypic test by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for five genes 16s rRNA, blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTXM, blaOXA. Results: Out of the 115 E. coli isolates, 40 (39.1%) were found to produce ESBLs. Molecular analysis showed that 62.2% of the ESBL-producing isolates carried the blaCTXM gene, followed by blaTEM (37.8%), blaSHV (26.7%), and blaOXA (17.8%). High resistance rates were observed against third-generation cephalosporins, such as Ceftriaxone (80%) and Cefotaxime (75%). Conclusion: This study highlights the widespread occurrence of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli strains in UTIs and emphasizes the importance of molecular detection for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. The findings underline the need for antimicrobial stewardship programs to combat the spread of resistance.