Klebsiella pneumoniae is one of the major pathogens associated with multidrug resistance. This study aims to estimate the prevalence and characterize the molecular epidemiology of carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae in Thailand. We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and a Thai Journals Online (ThaiJO) from inception to November 19, 2024. Subgroup, meta-regression, and heterogeneity analyses were conducted. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger’s test. The pooled prevalence estimates reflect proportions reported in published hospital-based studies. A total of 32 studies were included in the systematic review, with 27 studies included in the meta-analysis. The pooled proportion of carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae isolates was 87% (95% CI: 81%, 91%), with increasing trends observed for imipenem and meropenem resistance between 2014 and 2024. Ertapenem resistance remained high across regions, peaking in 2020 (100%) and 2024 (86%), particularly in the North and Northeast. The most prevalent carbapenemase gene was blaNDM (50%). Among the ESBL-associated genes, the pooled prevalence estimate was highest for blaCTX-M (86%). Co-harboring of blaNDM and blaOXA-48-like was observed in 36% of the isolates. Co-harboring of ESBL genes was detected in 25% of isolates. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses confirmed significant heterogeneity across regions and years. This meta-analysis highlights a high and growing burden of carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae in Thailand, marked by notable geographic variation and a predominance of blaNDM and ESBL genes. While the findings are indicative of important trends, the observed heterogeneity suggests that the results should be interpreted with caution.
Klebsiella pneumoniae, Carbapenem Resistance, Molecular Epidemiology, Carbapenemase, ESBL, Thailand
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