Protection with bacteriophage KØ1 against fatal Klebsiella pneumoniae-induced burn wound infection in mice.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Bacteriophages, viruses that cause lysis of bacteria, can serve as an effective tool for the control of infections, especially those caused by multiple drug-resistant organisms. Klebsiella pneumoniae is one of the most predominant pathogens associated with burn wound infections, causing considerable morbidity and mortality. This study investigated the protective effect of K. pneumoniae-specific bacteriophage KØ1 isolated from the environment in a mouse model of burn wound infection induced by K. pneumoniae. METHODS The toxicity of the bacteriophage and its in vivo survival and stability in mice was assessed. The fatal dose of K. pneumoniae was ascertained in third-degree burn wound infection. The protective effect of the bacteriophage administered via the subcutaneous or intraperitoneal route was investigated. RESULTS A substantial decrease in the bacterial load of blood, peritoneal lavage, and lung tissue was noted following treatment with the bacteriophage preparation. The decrease in microbial count was evident when the bacteriophage was administered either via the subcutaneous or intraperitoneal route. CONCLUSION These results suggest that bacteriophages have the potential to modulate the course of burn wound infection caused by K. pneumoniae.