Predicting Antibiotic Tolerance in hvKP and cKP Respiratory Infections Through Biofilm Formation Analysis and Its Resistance Implications

Abstract

Introduction

Respiratory infections are a major global health concern, with Klebsiella pneumoniae standing out due to its evolving antibiotic resistance. This study compares the resistance profiles of hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKP) and classical Klebsiella pneumoniae (cKP), aiming to shed light on their clinical implications.

Methods

We analyzed 86 cases, comprising 42 hvKP and 44 cKP strains, using comprehensive antimicrobial susceptibility testing and clinical data evaluation to assess antibiotic tolerance and resistance mechanisms.

Results

Our findings reveal distinct resistance patterns between hvKP and cKP, highlighting the role of chromosomal mutations and plasmid-mediated gene transfer in conferring antibiotic resistance. Notably, hvKP strains exhibited unique resistance trends, including the production of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenemases, differing from those of cKP.

Discussion

This research underscores the importance of continuous surveillance and the development of targeted therapies against antibiotic-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae. It emphasizes the critical need for judicious antibiotic use and novel therapeutic approaches to combat respiratory infections caused by these increasingly resistant pathogens.

Keywords:

• Klebsiella pneumoniae
• antibiotic resistance
• hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae
• hvKP
• classical Klebsiella pneumoniae
• cKP
• public health

Data Sharing Statement

The original data supporting the conclusions of this article will be made available by the Dr.Zhongwei Wen, without undue reservation.

Ethics Statement

This research was conducted in full accordance with ethical principles, including the World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki (as revised in 2013) concerning human rights. Ethics Committee Approval: The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University (Approval Number: 2022-E404-05). Informed Consent: Informed consent was obtained from all individual participants involved in the study. Participants were informed about the purpose of the research, the procedures to be undertaken, potential risks and benefits, and the confidentiality of their data. They were also informed of their right to withdraw from the study at any time without penalty. Data Handling and Confidentiality: All data collected during this study are stored securely and are accessible only to the research team. Personal identifiers have been removed to ensure the confidentiality and privacy of participants.

Disclosure

The authors declare no conflict of interest.