Nosocomial transmission of extensively drug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii strains in a tertiary level hospital

PLoS One. 2020 Apr 17;15(4):e0231829. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231829. eCollection 2020.

Abstract

Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic infectious agent that affects primarily immunocompromised individuals. A. baumannii is highly prevalent in hospital settings being commonly associated with nosocomial transmission and drug resistance. Here, we report the identification and genetic characterization of A. baumannii strains among patients in a tertiary level hospital in Mexico. Whole genome sequencing analysis was performed to establish their genetic relationship and drug resistance mutations profile. Ten genetically different, extensively drug resistant strains were identified circulating among seven wards. The genetic profiles showed resistance primarily against aminoglycosides and beta-lactam antibiotics. Importantly, no mutants conferring resistance to colistin were observed. The results highlight the importance of implementing robust classification schemes for advanced genetic characterization of A. baumannii clinical isolates and simultaneous detection of drug resistance markers for adequate patient's management in clinical settings.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acinetobacter baumannii / isolation & purification
  • Acinetobacter baumannii / physiology*
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cross Infection / transmission*
  • Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests
  • Middle Aged
  • Phylogeny
  • Tertiary Care Centers*

Grants and funding

Programa Presupuestario A022: Investigación y Desarrollo Militar en Coordinación con Universidades Públicas, Instituciones Públicas de Educación Superior y/o demás Centros Públicos de Investigación. Recipient: ESR. Secretaria de la Defensa Nacional, Mexico.