Molecular characterization of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from renal transplanted patients: virulence markers, extended-spectrum β-lactamases, and genetic relatedness.

The objective was to characterize virulence markers and β-lactam resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates from renal transplant patients and to evaluate their genetic relatedness. Two main genetic lineages were detected: 1 carried bla(CTX-M-15) not associated to IncFIIA plasmid replicon, which was found on the other lineage not expressing CTX-M-type enzyme. PAI III(536) and PAI II(CFT073) were detected for the first time in K. pneumoniae in 1 clone, while the siderophore kfu was carried by the other, with only PAI IV(536). The molecular data indicate colonization before admission and fuel the discussion on implementation of antibiotherapy before surgery.