Prevalence of ESBL Genes Among Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii Isolated from Female UTI Patients in Dharwad, Karnataka, India

Background The emergence of ESBL-producing non-fermenters, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii , is a growing concern, particularly in Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). This study investigates the prevalence and distribution of ESBL genes among these pathogens isolated from female UTI patients in Dharwad, Karnataka, India. Methods A total of 713 urine samples were processed. Bacterial identification was conducted using culture and molecular methods. Phenotypic ESBL detection and quantitative PCR (qPCR) were employed to identify specific ESBL genes. Results Out of 713 samples, 665 were culture positive. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (56 isolates) and Acinetobacter baumannii (29 isolates) were identified. ESBL production was phenotypically confirmed in 69.6% and 48.3% of P. aeruginosa and A. baumannii, respectively. Genotypic screening revealed the high prevalence of bla SHV , bla TEM , and bla OXA-23 genes. bla KPC was only observed in P. aeruginosa. Discussion The study demonstrates a high burden of ESBL-producing non-fermenters in UTI patients. Molecular surveillance is critical for effective antibiotic stewardship. Conclusion High proportions of ESBL genes, particularly blaSHV (84.6%) and blaTEM (69.2%), were detected in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, indicating strong resistance potential. In Acinetobacter baumannii, the predominance of blaOXA-23 (78.6%) confirms its major role in carbapenem resistance.