665. Modified Superposition in vitro Susceptibility of Aztreonam and Ceftazidime/Avibactam for an NDM-5 Metallo-β-Lactamase-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolate

BACKGROUND: We describe a novel in vitro susceptibility testing approach of aztreonam and ceftazidime/avibactam using a superposition method paired with confirmatory testing and molecular sequencing of a New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM)-5-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae. METHODS: A modified strip superposition method with Epsilometer test (Etest) strips and Kirby Bauer disks was utilized to test the in vitro activity of aztreonam and ceftazidime/avibactam against the NDM-producing K. pneumoniae. The isolate was also sent for whole genome sequencing and tested for the in vitro activity of aztreonam and ceftazidime in combination with avibactam using a broth microdilution checkerboard assay. Aztreonam and ceftazidime/avibactam in vitro testing with modified superposition method [Figure: see text] RESULTS: All zones of inhibition from the Etest superposition method were measured to be 22 mm in diameter (Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute [CLSI] zone of inhibition for aztreonam susceptibility is ≥ 21 mm for Enterobacterales). The results of whole genome sequencing showed the K. pneumoniae isolate carried a metallo-β-lactamase (blaNDM-5), extended-spectrum β-lactamase (blaCTX-M-15), and other β-lactamases (blaSHV-11, blaTEM-1). Through the broth microdilution checkerboard method, the isolate demonstrated inhibition by aztreonam/avibactam (fixed concentration of 4mg/L) at a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.25 mg/L but was resistant to ceftazidime/avibactam (MIC > 16 mg/L) and aztreonam alone (MIC > 16 mg/L) according to CLSI breakpoints. CONCLUSION: The in vitro activity of aztreonam and ceftazidime/avibactam against an NDM-5-producing K. pneumoniae was demonstrated with a modified superposition method. This may serve as a simplistic and readily available technique for rapidly determining antimicrobial activity in these difficult to treat pathogens. DISCLOSURES: Justin Schmetterer, PharmD, PhC, BCIDP, AbbVie Speaker Bureau: Honoraria Yao Lin, MS, Abbvie Inc: employee|Abbvie Inc: Stocks/Bonds.