Verona Integron-encoded MBL (VIM) is the most widespread MBL (metallo-beta-lactamase) enzyme comprising 51 reported variants. It is an enzyme and readily transferable antibiotic resistance factor that can spread from one strain of bacteria to another by horizontal gene transfer. Similar to carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) strains, VIM producers have been associated with more complicated patient courses, including higher relapse rates and a need for prolonged durations of antimicrobial therapy. VIM has been associated with outbreaks of hospital-acquired infections due to Pseudomonasaeruginosa and Enterobacteriaceae, and is an emerging threat to public health.
Diagnosing VIM involves testing a sample of the bacterium to determine its resistance to antibiotics. This can be done using laboratory techniques such as bacterial culture and susceptibility testing, or through rapid diagnostic tests. In some cases, a combination of both methods may be used to ensure the most accurate results.