ESBL and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae in infectious pleural effusions: current epidemiology at Hôpital du Mali

BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health concern, with extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenemases being major contributors. Pleural infection (PI) is a severe condition in West Africa, complicated by AMR. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and molecular characteristics of ESBL and carbapenemase-producing enterobacteria in pleural effusions in Mali. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pleural fluid samples from 526 patients with pleuritis were analyzed. Enterobacterial species were isolated and identified, and the prevalence of resistance genes (bla(OXA-48), bla(NDM-1), bla(KPC), bla(TEM), bla(SHV)) and virulence factors was determined. RESULTS: Among the patients, 110 were diagnosed with enterobacterial pleuritis. Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis were the main pathogens identified. Resistance to β-lactams and cephalosporins was high, while carbapenems showed good activity. ESBL production was detected in 33.6% of isolates, with bla(TEM) being the most common gene. Carbapenemase gene (bla(NDM-1)) was found in three isolates. CONCLUSION: The study highlights the high prevalence of multidrug-resistant bacteria and the need for appropriate antibiotic selection based on local resistance patterns. Understanding the molecular characteristics of resistance is crucial for optimizing patient care and developing effective therapeutic strategies. Further research is needed to monitor and control AMR in PIs in Mali.