Detection of Carbapenemase Genes in <i>Acinetobacter baumannii</i> Isolates from Al-Azizya Hospital, Wasit, Iraq

Abstract

Background: Acinetobacter baumannii is a critical nosocomial pathogen notorious for its multidrug resistance (MDR) and ability to cause severe infections, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs). Carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB) poses a significant public health threat due to limited treatment options and high mortality rates. Objectives: This study aimed to detect carbapenemase genes (blaOXA-23, blaOXA-48, blaNDM, and blaVIM) and evaluate antibiotic resistance patterns in A. baumannii isolates from Al-Azizya Hospital, Wasit, Iraq. Methods: Fifty-eight A. baumannii isolates were collected from clinical samples and identified using phenotypic and biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed via the disk diffusion method, and carbapenemase genes were detected using PCR. Results: All isolates harbored the intrinsic blaOXA-51 gene, confirming their identity as A. baumannii. The prevalence of carbapenemase genes was as follows: blaOXA-23 (26%), blaVIM (24%), blaOXA-48 (22%), and blaNDM (21%). High resistance rates were observed against ceftazidime (100%), meropenem (96%), and imipenem (95%), with aztreonam showing the lowest resistance (59%). Conclusions: These findings highlight the genetic diversity of carbapenem resistance mechanisms in this region and underscore the urgent need for stringent infection control measures, including enhanced surveillance, strict antibiotic stewardship, and the development of novel therapeutic strategies to combat CRAB infections. This study contributes to a better understanding of CRAB’s molecular epidemiology in Iraq and informs strategies to mitigate the spread of MDR A. baumannii in healthcare settings.