Species identification and antibiotic resistance patterns of the enterococci

Abstract

One hundred and forty isolates were identified using the GPI Card (Vitek Systems) and a conventional biochemical scheme. Agar dilution susceptibility testing was performed and isolates were screened for beta-lactamase production. The GPI Card was accurate in identifyingEnterococcus faecalis, but discrepant results were obtained for seven (29.1 %) of the 24non-Enterococcus faecalis isolates. Ampicillin resistance was present in 2.9 % of isolates and there were no beta-lactamase producers. There was no vancomycin resistance but 12.1 % of isolates showed high-level resistance to gentamicin.