Interaction between gut microbiota and antibiotic resistance in patients with PTSD: Data from a cohort study

Aim: To analyze the composition of gut microbiota, antibiotic resistance profiles of isolated strains, and biochemical blood parameters in individuals with and without PTSD.

Materials and Methods: A cohort study was conducted involving 82 participants: 40 patients diagnosed with PTSD and 42 without PTSD (control group). All subjects completed the PCL-5 questionnaire and underwent clinical examination, biochemical blood testing, and microbiological analysis of fecal samples. Bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing were performed using standardized culturomic and EUCAST methods.

Results: PTSD patients showed a significantly higher prevalence of opportunistic microorganisms, including Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterobacter cloacae, and a reduction in beneficial strains such as Lactobacillus casei. Increased resistance to carbapenems and macrolides was noted in the PTSD group. Biochemical analysis revealed hyperglycemia, elevated liver enzymes, decreased total protein, and increased markers of inflammation. These findings demonstrated significant correlations between gut dysbiosis, antibiotic resistance, and systemic metabolic alterations.

Conclusions: The study confirms a link between gut microbiota composition, antimicrobial resistance, and metabolic dysregulation in PTSD patients. These results may inform the development of integrated diagnostic approaches and targeted interventions in PTSD management.