blaOXA48

blaOXA48 refers to a family of genes that encode OXA-48-like carbapenemases, a group of class D beta-lactamases associated with carbapenem resistance in Enterobacterales. The original blaOXA-48 gene was first identified in a Klebsiella pneumoniae isolate in Turkey around 2001, and related blaOXA-48-like genes have since been detected worldwide. These genes are typically carried on plasmids, often of the IncL/M type, facilitating horizontal spread among species such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., and Citrobacter.

OXA-48-like enzymes hydrolyze penicillins and carbapenems, with variable activity against expanded-spectrum cephalosporins. In many cases, carbapenem hydrolysis is modest, which can result in misleading susceptibility results on routine testing. Consequently, detection of blaOXA-48-like producers often requires carbapenemase-specific phenotypic tests or molecular assays that target blaOXA-48-like genes.

The blaOXA-48 family includes several notable variants, such as blaOXA-48, blaOXA-181, blaOXA-232, and blaOXA-244, collectively referred to as blaOXA-48-like genes. Variants differ in geographic distribution and enzymatic properties, influencing the resistance phenotype and diagnostic detection.

Clinically and from a public health perspective, blaOXA-48-like carbapenemases contribute to multidrug resistance and can complicate infection control. Surveillance and rapid molecular or phenotypic testing are important for appropriate antibiotic selection and containment. When detected, therapeutic options are guided by susceptibility testing; many OXA-48 producers remain susceptible to ceftazidime-avibactam, while alternatives such as temocillin or other agents may be considered based on local susceptibility data and patient factors. Infection-control measures are essential to limit transmission in healthcare settings.