What does ESBL mean?
ESBL stands for Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase. Beta Lactamases are enzymes produced by many species of bacteria which destroy one or more antibiotics. It is one of the ways in which bacteria develop resistance. ESBLs are unusual in that as the name suggests they break down an exceptional wide variety of antibiotics. This can cause problems when treating infected patients, as doctors do not usually use the few remaining effective antibiotics as a first choice. This can complicate and/or delay appropriate treatment. Although people sometimes talk about ESBLs, strictly speaking they should say which bacteria species has the ESBL, for example ESBL-producing E.coli………..Read more.
