Characterization of genus proteus isolated from various clinical specimens and detection of extended-spectrum β-Lactamase production

Background: Among Gram-negative bacteria, the presence of beta-lactamases is a defined modality of resistance to antibiotics of the beta-lactam group. Proteus species also has been showing various degrees of resistance to these groups of antibiotics and thereby appearing multidrug resistant. The aim of our study was to know the occurrence of Proteus species from different clinical samples their antibiotic susceptibility, extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production, and the associated patient risk factors. Materials and Methods: This observational descriptive study was done from December 2020 to December 2021. All Proteus isolates obtained from various clinical samples, were biochemically identified, antibiogram, and screening for ESBL production was done using a combination of cefotaxime and cefotaxime clavulanic acid antibiotic discs. Results: Seventy-nine Proteus isolates were obtained from hospitalized patients. In that, Proteus mirabilis was the most common isolate followed by Proteus vulgaris. Proteus infections were common in the age groups of 41–60 years and males were affected more than females. Out of the 79 Proteus isolates 12 were ESBL producers. Among these, 25% of ESBL producers were P. mirabilis and 75% of them were P. vulgaris. Conclusion: The most common isolate was P. mirabilis among hospitalized patients and P. vulgaris was the main ESBL producers when compared to P. mirabilis. These pathogens mainly caused wound and urinary tract infections. The patient age groups ranged mainly from 49–60 years. Diabetes mellitus was the most significant risk factor in these Proteus infections.