Molecular Study of Plasmid Genes Ampc of Acinetobacter baumannii Isolated from Clinical Cases Using Multiplex PCR

Abstract

Background and purpose: Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic pathogen that remains persistent in the environment for a long time. The eradication of this bacteria is difficult, since it has the ability to acquire antibiotic resistance. The aims of this study were to identify the ampC plasmid-mediated genes and antibiotic sensitivity of Acinetobacter baumannii strains. Materials and methods: Sixty strains of Acinetobacter baumannii isolates from wound, urine, blood, and respiratory secretions were used. The presence of ampC plasmid-mediated genes including FOX, MOX, DHA, ACC and CIT were evaluated by Multiplex PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing against 5 antibiotics was performed for all isolates. Results: Multiplex PCR results showed that 39 samples (65%) had the CIT gene, 36 (60%) had the DHA gene, 12 (20%) had the MOX gene and 8 samples (13.3%) harboured ACC and FOX genes. Based on antibiogram results, the highest rate of resistance was found to cefepime (95%) and the highest rate of sensitivity was to gentamicin (45%). Conclusion: Current study showed a high percentage of ampC plasmid-mediated genes and also high prevalence of antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii.

Keywords

• acinetobacter baumannii
• antibiotic resistance
• ampc
• multiplex pcr.