Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of uropathogens in different inpatient wards

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Clinical Pharmacy

Background:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common, with Escherichia coli being the primary pathogen in most cases.
• However, other Gram-negative rods are significant, particularly in neonates, and antibiotic resistance patterns vary between pediatric and adult populations.
• Understanding local prevalence and resistance is crucial for effective UTI management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the local prevalence and antibiotic resistance patterns of uropathogens.
• To analyze the distribution of uropathogens across different age groups.
• To inform clinical guidelines and treatment strategies for UTIs.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 4833 positive urine culture samples.
• Identification of uropathogens and assessment of their susceptibility to various antimicrobial agents.
• Stratification of data by age groups and inpatient wards.

Main Results:

• Escherichia coli was the predominant uropathogen across all adult care units.
• Significant variations in the prevalence of other uropathogens were noted.
• Decreasing susceptibility rates were observed for trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, cephalosporins, and quinolones.
• Differential resistance patterns were identified among the 8 investigated inpatient wards.

Conclusions:

• Local surveillance of uropathogen prevalence and antibiotic resistance is essential.
• Escherichia coli remains the leading cause of UTIs, but other pathogens warrant attention, especially in specific demographics.
• The declining susceptibility to commonly used antibiotics necessitates careful selection of empirical therapy and highlights the need for antimicrobial stewardship.