KPC-mediated resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae in two hospitals in Padua Italy June 2009-December 2011: massive spreading of a KPC-3-encoding plasmid and involvement of non-intensive care units

摘要

BackgroundKlebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemases (KPCs) producing bacteria have emerged as a cause of multidrug-resistant nosocomial infections worldwide. KPCs are plasmid-encoded enzymes capable of hydrolysing a broad spectrum of beta-lactams, including carbapenems and monobactams, therefore worryingly limiting antimicrobial treatment options. Analysis of circulating bacterial strains and KPC alleles may help understanding the route of KPC dissemination and therefore help containing the infection.