Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae: sources of infection and the value of intestinal colonization in patients with hematological malignancies

In recent years, the incidence of infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria, particularly by extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E), has increased. One of the major issues in the treatment of infections caused by these pathogens is their resistance to many antimicrobial agents. In patients with hematological malignancies, the most common source of infection is their own intestinal flora, which gets translocated from the intestinal mucosa into the bloodstream. The article discusses the prevalence and sources of infection with ESBL-E, as well as the necessity of monitoring of gut colonization with these bacteria during chemotherapy.