Genomic Insights Into Carbapenem‐Resistant <scp> <i>Klebsiella pneumoniae</i> </scp> in Pediatric Bloodstream Infections in Zhejiang, China (2019–2024)

OBJECTIVES: Bloodstream infections (BSIs) caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae are associated with a significant risk of mortality. While the majority of existing research has concentrated on adult populations, there is a paucity of studies addressing pediatric cases. This study aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying carbapenem resistance in K. pneumoniae strains responsible for bloodstream infections in children. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted at Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, focusing on patients diagnosed with bloodstream infections due to carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae (CRKP). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and whole-genome sequencing were subsequently performed. RESULTS: gene was identified. CONCLUSIONS: This study determined that the production of class B metalloenzymes is the primary mechanism of carbapenem resistance in pediatric bloodstream infections caused by CRKP. Importantly, the ST25-KL2 lineage emerged as the dominant clone, highlighting its potential for nosocomial transmission.