Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing enterobacterales carrying the mcr-1 gene in Lima, Peru.

We analyzed the presence of the mcr-1 gene in 165 extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing enterobacterales (ESBL-PE) obtained during 2017, from blood (40), urine (57), lower respiratory secretions (12) and rectal swabs (56) of patients hospitalized in the Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas (Peru). Antimicrobial identification and susceptibility were determined by the Phoenix M50 automated system; colistin resistance by Colistin Agar-Spot (CAS); mrc-1 detection by colistin pre-diffusion and inhibition with EDTA test (CPD-E) and by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We found that from the 165 ESBL-PE, 25 were positive for mcr-1 by the CPD-E method and confirmed by PCR. Colistin resistance was found in 20/165 by using the CAS method. Additionally, they showed resistance to fluoroquinolones and gentamicin, while remaining sensitive to amikacin; two isolates presented metallo-carbapenemases. Obtaining data on resistance to last-line antimicrobials (colistin) is crucial to establish measures for its control.