Introduction: Klebsiella pnemoniae is an opportunistic microorganism which is one of the most important causes of urinary infections. The present study aimed to investigate the frequency of extended spectrum beta lactamase producing and multi drug resistant K. pnemoniae in urinary tract infections.

Materials & methods: A total of 340 urine samples were analyzed for the presence of K. pnemoniae. Drug resistance pattern of the K. pnemoniae isolates and production of extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) were determined by agar disc diffusion and combined disc methods. Frequency of TEM and SHV genes in ESBL positive strains was determined by PCR.

Findings: Out of 340 urine samples, in 65 (19.12%) samples K. pnemoniae were isolated as the causative agent of urinary tract infections. All of the isolates showed multi drug resistance and the most resistance was against penicillin (92%), amoxicillin (87.6%), and erythromycin (84.6%). Gentamycin and kanamycin showed the most antibacterial effects. Also, 32 (52.3%) of tested bacteria were recognized as extended spectrum beta lactamase producer isolates. Out of them 26 (76%) isolates were identified positive for the presence of TEM gene and 15 (44%) isolates were SHV positive.

 Discussion & conclusions: The results showed a high prevalence of K. pnemoniae in urinary tract infections and high amounts of drug resistance in the isolates.