Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases (ESBL)

Last reviewed 01/2018

• Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases (ESBLs) are enzymes that can be produced by bacteria making them resistant to cephalosporins e.g. cefuroxime, cefotaxime and ceftazidime - which are the most widely used antibiotics in many hospitals
  • ESBLs were first described in the mid-1980s and during the 1990s were mostly found in Klebsiella species, mostly in hospitals and often in intensive care units treating the most vulnerable patients
  • a newer class of ESBL (called CTX-M enzymes) has emerged and these have been widely detected among Escherichia coli ( E. coli) bacteria
    • these ESBL-producing E. coli are able to resist penicillins and cephalosporins and are found most often in urinary tract infections - though not simple cystitis
    • have been found in the community as well as in hospitals, but patients with 'community acquired' infections may have had previous contact with hospitals

Reference:

• (1) Health Protection Agency (2008). Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases (ESBLs)