Abstract:
Context: Severely malnourished children have increased risk of being put on antibiotics due to co-morbidities.
Aim: The study’s objective was to characterize the Escherichia coli β-lactamase mediated resistance to the
broad spectrum β-lactam antimicrobials among this population and compare them with nourished children as
controls. Settings and Design: In this case-control, hospital-based setup, 109 E. coli isolates were obtained from
each group, one isolate per subject. Materials and Methods: Stool or anal swabs were collected, enriched in
buffered peptone water and cultured on MacConkey and eosin methylene blue agars. Biochemical test were
used to identify E. coli. antibiograms to determine phenotypic resistance were determined using a panel of 14
drugs. Only the isolates showing synergy between ampicillin-calvulanic acid and one or more third generation
cephalosporins were picked as extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producers. Statistical Analysis: Differences
in ESBL rates and susceptibility percentages between cases and controls were evaluated for significance using
2-tailed Fisher’s exact test. Results: Prevalence of ESBL phenotype was higher in severely malnourished children
(39%) as compared to the controls (7%). The plasmid–encoded AmpC’s (pAmpC)-like phenotype was observed in
11% isolates. Conclusions: Isolation of ESBL-E. coli among severely malnourished children is high. Surveillance of
ESBL producers, both in the community and hospital settings needs to be stepped up in Kenya.
