Navigating The Landscape of Klebsiella Pneumoniae : Virulence, Pathogenicity and Antibiotic Resistance- A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Klebsiella pneumoniae, a prevalent gram negative opportunistic pathogen within the Enterobacteriaceae family, is responsible for wide spectrum of human infections. It’s pathogenicity and antibiotic resistance are attributed to the presence of various virulence factors, including serum resistance, hyper-mucoviscosity and biofilm formation. Non- hypervirulent strains are primarily associated with nosocomial infections and exibit heightened antibiotic resistance, where as hypervirulent strains are more susceptible and cause invasive infections in healthy individuals. The pathogenicity of K.pneumoniae bolstered by an array of virulence factors, such as adhesions, siderophores, endotoxins, and capsule. The global dissemination of multidrug resistant strains is driven by plasmid mediated Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase activity. Biofilm formation enhances K.pneumoniae’s persistence on epithelial tissues and medical devices by shielding it from antibiotics and host immune responses. Detecting and inhibiting the rapid spread of highly resistant strains, necessitating continuous monitoring for specific serotypes of Carbapenemase producers and addressing the challenges posed by strains that rapidly disseminate and produce biofilms is imperative. Further research into natural anti-biofilm agents, such as Phytochemicals, Biosurfactants, Antimicrobial peptides, and micrfobial enzymes, holds promise for eliminating biofilm formation and curtailing the pathogen’s spread within healthcare settings.