World J Microbiol Biotechnol, 2014 Nov; 30(11):2995-3001. doi: 10.1007/s11274-014-1727-8. Epub 2014 Aug 26.
Multiplex real-time PCR probe-based for identification of strains producing: OXA48, VIM, KPC and NDM.
Favaro M1, Sarti M, Fontana C.
Author information:
1-Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, “Tor Vergata” University of Rome, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.
Abstract
The spread of multi-resistant enterobacteria, particularly carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae CRE, in both community and hospital settings is a global problem. The phenotypic identification of CRE is complex, occasionally inconclusive and time consuming. However, commercially available molecular assays are very expensive, and many do not allow the simultaneous identification of all genetic markers of resistance that have been recognised in CRE bla KPC, bla OXA-48, bla VIM and bla NDM. The aim of the present study is to describe a new test: a multiplex real time PCR probe-based assay designed for the simultaneous detection of KPC, OXA-48, VIM and NDM in a short time no longer than 90 min from the extraction of DNA to detection. Our assay correctly identified 63 CRE isolates and all standard reference strains tested, in agreement with and extending the results of phenotypic identification tests additionally, a KPC-VIM co-expressing Enterobacter aerogenes isolate was identified using the new assay, whereas traditional methods failed to detect it. The assay was also able to correctly detect 28 CRE-producers from 50 positive blood cultures, again detecting, in four specimens, the presence of CRE co-expressing KPC and VIM, which were only partially identified by traditional methods. Finally, when used directly on rectal swabs, the assay enabled the identification of CRE-carrier patients, for whom isolation is mandatory in a hospital setting.
PMID: 25154795 – PubMed