The extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) superbug is reported to have claimed the life of one patient at Hairmyres in East Kilbride, one of Scotland's most modern hospitals.

A study by consultant microbiologist at Hairmyres, Dr Dugald Baird, said 41 patients were found with the bacterium - which produce enzymes that break down common antibiotics - between July 2001 and April this year.

Lanarkshire Acute hospitals NHS Trust said ESBL was a "contributory" factor in the death of one patient.

Hairmyres Hospital: Opened last year

The report, published by the Scottish Centre for Infection and Environmental Health, claims the ESBL bacterium could become the new MRSA (methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus).

MRSA is a new generation of bacterial infection which has been described as a superbug because it is particularly resistant to antibiotics.

Last month, cardiac surgery at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary was halted after it emerged that 13 patients had contracted the superbug.

Dr Baird: "Initially a lot of the MRSA bacteria were not thought to be very harmful and it may be that we are seeing a similar sort of thing with ESBL producers.

Resistant organisms

"You have to be concerned when you see bacteria mutate into resistant strains before your eyes."

He said the ESBL infection had definitely "contributed" to the death of an Hairmyres patient.

A spokesman for Lanarkshire Acute hospitals NHS Trust said: "The trust welcomes the report by Dr Baird, which has clearly identified areas for further research that in the long term will bring benefits to patients being treated in hospitals throughout the country.

"The data gathered on ESBL isolates in Hairmyres Hospital, has highlighted the problem faced by hospitals all over the world regarding antibiotic resistant organisms."