A one-step multiplex PCR to identify Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella variicola, and Klebsiella quasipneumoniae in the clinical routine.

Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella variicola and Klebsiella quasipneumoniae are difficult to differentiate phenotypically, leading to misinterpretation of their infection prevalence. We propose a multiplex PCR for blaSHV, blaLEN and blaOKP and their flanking gene (deoR). Since this scheme focuses only on chromosomal genes, it will be feasible for Klebsiella identification in the clinical routine.