Phenotypic synergy testing of ceftazidime–avibactam with aztreonam in a university hospital having high number of metallobetalactamase producing bacteria

Abstract Background Ceftazidime–avibactam combination with aztreonam and role of rapid synergy reporting has not been widely evaluated. Also the synergy correlation with various betalactamases has not been widely studied. Methods We studied phenotypic synergy testings and molecular detection of betalactamases in our university hospital where we have large number of mellatobetalactmase producing bacteria. We tested two phenotypic synergy methods for ceftazidime-avibactam with aztreonam (Disc-E strip method, E strip-Agar method) for rapid reporting to clinicians (153 isolates). The treatment (colistin, ceftazidime-avibactam, ceftazidime-avibactam with aztreonam) was guided as indicated in the synergy testings. The resistance genes in bacteria were identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and correlated with synergy results. Results The highest synergy was seen in Klebsiella pneumoniae by Disc-E strip and E strip-Agar method (86% and 84% respectively). About 70% of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 29% of Escherichia coli showed synergy. Molecular methods revealed multiple resistance gene combinations and bla NDM (96%) was predominant gene in isolates showing synergy. Among isolates that were sensitive to ceftazidime–avibactam, the predominant genes were bla OXA-48 and bla IMP. Rapid laboratory reporting led to proper utilization of antibiotic combinations. Conclusions Ceftazidime–avibactam and aztreonam rapid synergy testing will be highly beneficial in treatment of infections by metallobetalactamase producing resistant bacteria, especially K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa.