Enterobacteriaceae

Gram-negative bacteria of the Enterobacteriaceae family are important causes of urinary tract infections (UTIs), bloodstream infections, hospital- and healthcare-associated pneumonias, and various intra-abdominal infections. Within this family, Escherichia coli is a frequent cause of UTIs, species of Klebsiella and Enterobacter are important causes of pneumonia, and all of the Enterobacteriaceae have been implicated in bloodstream infections and in peritonitis, cholangitis, and other intra-abdominal infections. Additionally, organisms such as Salmonella produce gastroenteritis and, subsequently, in some patients, invasive infection. Emerging resistance in Enterobacteriaceae is a significant problem. Resistance related to production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenemases is a major problem in the management of infections with the Enterobacteriaceae. The emergence of carbapenemases in Enterobacteriaceae is of particular concern since these organisms often present with extensive drug resistance (XDR) and sometimes even pan-drug resistance (PDR).