Risk factors associated with multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae infections: a multicenter observational study in Lebanese hospitals

The study aimed to estimate the proportion of multidrug-resistant (MDR) K. pneumoniae infections and identify associated risk factors. Data was collected from three academic hospitals in Beirut, Lebanon, between January 2021 and September 2023. Out of 2,655 K. pneumoniae cases, 410 met the inclusion criteria. The primary infection sources were the urinary tract and the respiratory tract. Predictors significantly associated with MDR K. pneumoniae infections included male sex, recent antibiotic use, and recent cancer chemotherapy. ESBL-producing infections were associated with advanced age, higher CCI, and recent antibiotic use, while CRKP infections were linked to male sex, prior antibiotic use, and prolonged hospital stays. Strengthening local surveillance and implementing effective antibiotic stewardship programs are critical to managing this growing threat.