Abstract
Background: The use of imipenem antibiotics against Gram-negative bacteria is growing, but the incidence of imipenem-resistant
bacteria is also increasing.
Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for imipenem resistance in patients with Gram-negative bacteria
infections.
Patients and Methods: An imipenem minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) test was done using the E-test, and a survey of different
risk factors of imipenem resistance in 374 patients who were infected solely by Gram-negative bacteria was performed.
Results: Of the 374 isolated, 134 were imipenem resistant, and 240 were sensitive to imipenem. The resistance rate was more common
in males and in patients with intensive care unit (ICU) admission, trauma-induced infections, a history of antibiotic use, the need for
ventilator support, or central venous catheter insertion, and in nosocomial infections.
Conclusions: Our results showed the rate of effects of different risk factors on imipenem resistance. Regarding the studied risk factors,
appropriate programs must be set in place to control and prevent imipenem resistance in Gram-negative bacteria.