Kluyvera spp

• K. ascorbata
• K. cryocrescens

Gram Stain

• Gram negative bacilli - fermenter

Clinical Significance

These organisms are isolated from environmental sources, food products of animal origin, soil, floors, sewage, and hospital environments.

They have been associated with opportunistic infections (often nosocomial), including bacteremia/sepsis, mediastinitis, meningitis, hepatobiliary infections, peritonitis, urinary tract and skin/soft tissue infections.

Usual Susceptibility Pattern

These organisms produce a chromosomal extended spectrum beta-lactamase (CTX-M ESBL) and should be considered resistant to all penicillins and 1st/2nd generation cephalosporins.

Third generation cephalosprorins may have diminished activity.