What are Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) producing E.coli?
ESBL (Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase) producing E. coli are antibiotic resistant strains of E. coli. E. coli are very common bacteria that normally live harmlessly in the gut. ESBL-producing strains are bacteria that produce an enzyme called extended-spectrum beta lactamase, which makes them more resistant to antibiotics and makes the infections harder to treat. In many instances, only two oral antibiotics and a very limited group of intravenous antibiotics remain effective.
