Abstract

Antibiotics have always been considered one of the wonder discoveries of the 20th century. This is true, but the real wonder is the rise of antibiotic resistance with their use. Resistance in Gram-negative bacteria has been increasing, particularly over the last decade. This is mainly due to the spread of strains producing extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs). Indiscriminate use of antibiotics is the main factor resulting in emergence, selection and dissemination of drug resistant pathogens in human. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of ESBL producing Gram negative uropathogen - Escherichia coli (E. coli) and their antibiotic resistance patterns. To isolate E. coli, urine samples of urinary tract infection (UTI) patients were obtained from hospitals in Mohali, Punjab, India. Urinary tract infection was found more prevalent in females than males. Out of the total isolates, 33.4% were identified as belonging to E. coli sp. The E. coli isolates were found to be highly resistant to penicillin G, erythromycin, streptomycin and oxacillin and susceptible to imipenem, cephotaxime, amikacin and chloramphenicol. 55% of E. coli isolates were detected as ESBL producers whereas 45% were non-ESBL producers and all the isolates showed resistance to more than three antibiotics. Results reveal that E. coli strains from UTI were multidrug resistant and produced ESBL that may be the cause of resistance to the antibiotic drugs. Results of this study suggest the need for an antibiotic policy for its rationale use and the policy should stress not only for prevention of infections, but also ensures proper selection of antibiotics and misuse of antibiotics should be minimized.