title: What are extended-spectrum beta-lactamases?
abstract: The emergence and spread of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) in Gram-negative bacteria pose important challenges for clinicians, as management options for these organisms are limited. The emergence of ESBL-producing Gram-negative bacteria is one of the most significant epidemiologic changes in infectious diseases during recent years. Failure to treat with an antibiotic active against ESBL-producing organisms is associated with increased patient morbidity and mortality. Carbapenems are considered the primary antibacterials for infections caused by ESBL-producing organisms but their overuse poses significant cause for concern.
authors.affiliation: S. Scott Sutton is an associate professor at the University of South Carolina's College of Pharmacy, and a clinical pharmacist in medicine, infectious diseases, and research at Dorn VA Medical Center, both in Columbia, S.C. The author has disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
authors.forename: S Scott
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Sutton
mesh_terms: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000494:pharmacology; D015780:Carbapenems / Q000494:pharmacology; D024881:Drug Resistance, Bacterial; D006090:Gram-Negative Bacteria / Q000201:enzymology*; D006801:Humans; D018440:beta-Lactam Resistance; D001618:beta-Lactamases / Q000096:biosynthesis*
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D015780:Carbapenems; D001618:beta-Lactamases