Detection of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae from Clinical Samples at Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, North East Nigeria

Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae represent a growing antimicrobial resistance threat in Nigerian hospitals, limiting treatment options and increasing mortality risk. This study detected and characterised ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae from clinical samples submitted to the laboratory of Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe, North East Nigeria. A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted over a six-month period. Clinical samples including urine, wound swabs, blood, and stool were processed using standard bacteriological techniques. Enterobacteriaceae were identified using the API 20E system, and ESBL production was confirmed by the combined disc diffusion test using cefotaxime and ceftazidime with and without clavulanic acid, following Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute criteria. A total of 186 Enterobacteriaceae were isolated, of which 41.4% were ESBL producers. Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were the most frequent ESBL producers. Urine specimens accounted for the majority of isolates. ESBL-producing strains showed higher multidrug resistance rates than non-producers, with near-complete resistance to cephalosporins and penicillins. Carbapenems retained the best activity. Prolonged hospitalisation and prior antibiotic exposure were significant risk factors. The study emphasises the urgency of establishing routine ESBL surveillance in all Nigerian teaching hospitals and implementing evidence-based antibiotic stewardship strategies to contain the spread of resistant organisms across North East Nigeria. Keywords: ESBL, Enterobacteriaceae, antimicrobial resistance, clinical samples, Gombe