Phenotypic Characterization and Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern of Clinical Isolates of Enterococci with Special Emphasis on Vancomycin Resistance

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Antimicrobial resistance is spreading all over the world and
becoming a major health concern. To stop the spread of antimicrobial resistance an
essential tool is required for the detection of sensitive antibiotics to Enterococci.
Microbiological surveillance by culture and sensitivity or by PCR methods for gene
detection will help the clinicians in choosing the appropriate antibiotic.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective observational study
conducted on 158 various clinical samples. Microbiological processing and find the
resistance pattern of isolates was done as per the protocols and CLSI guidelines.
Analysis of results was done by counts and percentages using MS Excel, 2007
version.
RESULTS: Out of 52 Enterococcus isolates 30 (57.6%) isolated from pus, 15
(30.7%) were from urine, 4 (7.6%) were from blood and 3 (5.7%) were from fluids.
40 (77%) were E.faecalis, 12 (23%) E.faecium. The Enterococci isolates from
various clinical samples showed a good sensitivity to vancomycin (96.1%),
chloramphenicol (96.1%), high level gentamicin (90.3%), and Amoxicillin/clavulanic
acid (86.5%). Out of 12 E.faecium, 2 (3.84%) were Vancomycin resistant.
CONCLUSION: Microbiological culture for speciation of bacteria is extremely
important in terms of Enterococcus as there is wide difference in resistance to
antibiotics by particular enterococcal species. Screening of vancomycin resistant by
high sensitivity test takes a crucial step in the management of cases and also to
prevent the transfer of VRE among hospitalized patients.