In Vitro Sensitivity of Chloramphenicol against Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase Producing Gram Negative Bacteria

Abstract

Objective To determine in vitro sensitivity of chloramphenicol against ESBL producing Gram negative organisms. Study design Cross sectional study. Methodology One hundred and twenty isolates of ESBL producing Gram negative organisms detected by combination disc synergy method were included in this study. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of chloramphenicol against these isolates was determined by E-strip. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute recommendations were followed; £ 8μg/ml sensitive, 16μg/ml intermediate and 32μg/ml resistant. Results Out of 120 ESBL producing Gram negative organisms, 86 (71.7%) were susceptible to chloramphenicol with MICs of £ 8μg/ml; 33 (27.5%) were resistant with MIC of 32μg/ml while 1 (0.8%) was in intermediate range with MIC of 16μg/ml. Conclusion Chloramphenicol has shown good in vitro activity against ESBL producing Gram negative bacteria and can play a key role in the treatment of infections caused by these organisms