Molecular detection of extensively drug-resistant Salmonella Typhi and carbapenem-resistant pathogens in pediatric septicemia patients in Pakistan – a public health concern

Aim: To determine the prevalence of multidrug (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) pathogens from pediatric blood samples Methods: In total, 4543 children's blood samples were processed in the BacT/ALERT system. Confirmation of the isolates and MIC was determined in VITEK® 2 system. Molecular identification of blaIMP, blaVIM and blaOXA-48 was done by PCR. Results: Of 4543 blood cultures, 458 (10%) were positive for bacterial growth and Salmonella Typhi (415; 90%) remained the primary pathogens. Antibiogram revealed 208 (50.1%) and 137 (33%) were MDR and XDR S. Typhi, respectively. Klebsiella pneumoniae displayed 46% resistance to imipenem. One hundred twelve (81.7%) XDR Typhi were positive for blaCTXM, whereas 14 (66.6%) blaVIM were found in carbapenem-resistant bacteria. Conclusion: A high prevalence of MDR and XDR pathogens was found in peads blood culture.