Re: ESBL infections on the rise?
"Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) are plasmid-mediated beta lactamases of predominantly Bush class A, so far described only in gram negative bacilli. ESBLs are capable of efficiently hydrolyzing penicillins, narrow spectrum cephalosporins, many extended-spectrum cephalosporins, the oxyimino group containing cephalosporins (cefotaxime, ceftazidime), and monobactams (aztreonam). Beta-lactamase inhibitors (clavulanic acid, sulbactam, and tazobactam) generally inhibit ESBL producing strains."
Extended-Spectrum beta-lactamase Producing Gram Negative Bacilli
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We don't really deal with ESBL's where I work in NICU. Fortunately most of our infections can be effectively treated with ampicillin/gentamycin/vancomycin/cefotaxime.....we do occasionally use primaxin....