Detection of NDM and OXA-48 Resistant Genes in Acinetobacter baumannii Isolated from Intensive Care Units’ Patients Clinical Samples in Khartoum State

Objectives: Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic bacterial pathogen with intrinsic and acquired resistance to many antibiotics, resulting in high morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to detect MDR Acinetobacter baumannii and its resistant genes (blaNDM, blaOXA48) from clinical isolates in Khartoum state.

Methodology: A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted during the period fromApril to July 2019. A total of 50 clinical isolates were obtained from samples of patients in intensive care units (ICUs) for the purpose of molecular confirming of A. baumannii and detecting NDM and OXA-48 resistance genes by using conventional PCR.

Results: Of the 50 isolates examined, 47 (94%) were confirmed to be A. baumannii, and 3 (6%) were other species. Moreover, the 47 A. baumannii isolates were furtherly examined for the presences of resistant genes and the result showed that NDM gene was detected in 2 isolates (4.3%) and OXA-48 gene was detected in only one isolate (2.1%).

Conclusion: There is low prevalence of NDM and OXA-48 Resistant Genes among A. baumannii ICUs isolates. However, continuous regional monitoring of antimicrobial resistance and improvement of infection control measures are required in the intensive care units of Khartoum hospitals to prevent further spread.