Determination of the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of extended spectrum beta lactamase (esbl) producing and the non-esbl producing strains of Escherichia coli

Background: The extended spectrum beta lactamasesproducing bacteria are bacteria of great concern among Gram negative bacilli. Escherichia colistand out as major carrier of this enzyme. The appropriate control of this resistance pattern depends on using the antimicrobial regimen of best choice. Therefore the value of the susceptibility profile of organism harboring this enzyme cannot be overemphasized. Objectives: To determine the antimicrobial susceptibility of extended spectrum beta lactamases(ESBL) producing and the non-ESBL producing strains of Escherichia colifrom clinical isolates of Escherichia coliin University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. Methodology: Confirmed variants of Escherichia coliwere screened and confirmed for ESBL possession. Subsequently, modified Kirby Bauer method was utilized to test for antibiotic susceptibility using the commercially available Oxoid single disc for some major antibiotics. Results: A total of 172 strains of Escherichia coliwere identified during the study period. Out of this number; 131 were identified as ESBL positive while a total of 41 were ESBL negative. The highest sensitivity for both the ESBL positive and ESBL negative strains of Escherichia coliwas observed with Imipenemfollowed closely by Gentamicin. Conclusion : The study reveals narrow choice of antibiotics for the ESBL positive isolates of Escherichia colialthough Imipenemantibiotic still retains its sensitivity. Keywords: Cephalosporins, Resistance, Maiduguri, Nigeria