Presence of multidrug resistant enterobacteriaceae and escherichia coli in meat purchased in traditional markets of lima

Objective. The objective of this study was to describe the presence of Enterobacteriaceae in meat samples collected in traditional markets of Lima and to establish the levels of antimicrobial resistance and the presence of extended spectrum beta-lactamases (BLEE) and AmpC in Escherichia coli. Materials and Methods. A total of 138 meat samples, 64 (46.4%) chicken, 44 (31.9%) beef and 30 (21.7%) pork were collected. The isolated bacteria belonged to 17 different genera and, specifically, 14 were classified as Enterobacteriaceae. Sensitivity to ten antimicrobial agents was analyzed using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, BLEE and AmpC were determined by double disc and imipenem-ceftazidime induction tests, respectively. Results. Antimicrobial resistance levels were high against trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, ampicillin, tetracycline, nalidixic acid, ciprofloxacin and chloramphenicol. There are significant differences in antibiotic resistance levels depending on the type of meat (chicken, beef and pork) (p <0.05). Multiple drug resistance (MDR) levels were particularly high in chicken and pork (98.2% and 86.4%, respectively). In addition, the presence of BLEE in Escherichia coli isolated from chicken meat was 59.4%. Conclusions. Multiple drug resistance levels were high compared to antibiotics frequently used in humans; chicken and beef are highlighted as potential reservoirs of BLEE and pAmpC-producing Escherichia coli, respectively.