Antibiotic Susceptibility Profile of ESKAPE Pathogens From Blood Culture in A Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Introduction:
ESKAPE pathogens—Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp.—are leading culprits of hospital-acquired infections globally. Their remarkable ability to develop resistance through beta-lactamase production, efflux pumps, biofilm formation, and genetic mutations presents a serious challenge to patient care and infection control. These pathogens contribute to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs, especially in critical care settings.
Aim and Objective:
The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of ESKAPE pathogens isolated from blood cultures in a tertiary care setting. Specific objectives were to isolate and identify ESKAPE organisms using standard laboratory methods, determine their antibiotic susceptibility patterns, and compare resistance trends among them.
Materials and Methods:
A prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, Pt. B.D. Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak. Blood culture specimens yielding ESKAPE pathogens from 200 admitted patients were included. Identification and susceptibility testing were performed using conventional and automated systems, following CLSI guidelines. Inclusion criteria covered patients of all ages and departments, while exclusions included prior prolonged antibiotic use or incomplete data.
Results:
Acinetobacter baumannii (28%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (25%) were predominant among isolates. Gram-negative pathogens exhibited high resistance to cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones, with better susceptibility to colistin and carbapenems in selected strains.
Among gram-positive isolates, Enterococcus faecium and Staphylococcus aureus demonstrated resistance to ampicillin and ciprofloxacin, while linezolid and vancomycin retained efficacy.
Conclusion:
This study highlights the high burden of multidrug-resistant ESKAPE pathogens in bloodstream infections. Rapid identification, strict antibiotic stewardship, and effective infection control strategies are vital to limit the spread of resistant strains and improve patient outcomes.