Outcome of infections with extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing organisms in children

Abstract

Infections with organisms producing extended-spectrum beta-lactamases are associated with well established risk factors and poor outcomes in adults, but these are less well defined in children. Our case-control analysis showed that infections with extended-spectrum beta-lactamases producing organisms are linked to prolonged antibiotic usage and are possibly associated with prolonged length of stay and worse overall outcomes in hospitalized children. Efforts to limit the duration and narrow the spectrum of antimicrobial therapy may assist in controlling infections due to these organisms.

Keywords

ESBL - extended-spectrum beta-lactamases - antimicrobials - E. coli - K. pneumoniae - children - pediatrics