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A New Preview of Antibiotic-resistant Spectrum in Community-acquired Pneumonia: A Cross-Sectional Study from Iraq

Marwan Majeed Ibrahim1, Yusur Muhammad Said Thabit Al-Rawi2

  • 1Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq.

The Open Respiratory Medicine Journal
|April 16, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Antimicrobial resistance in community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a serious concern in Iraq. This study found alarmingly high resistance rates, including pan-resistant strains, necessitating urgent antibiotic stewardship programs.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a major global health challenge, exacerbated by rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
  • Understanding local resistance patterns is crucial for effective treatment of CAP, particularly in regions with limited data like Iraq.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of antibiotic resistance in bacterial pathogens causing CAP in Iraq.
  • To identify common CAP pathogens and their susceptibility profiles to various antibacterial agents.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study involving 122 CAP patients at Al-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital, Baghdad.
  • Sputum samples were analyzed using microscopy, culture, and the VITEK® 2 system for bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing.

Main Results:

  • 44% of patients had positive bacterial cultures, with common pathogens including *S. pneumoniae*, *S. sanguinis*, *S. aureus*, and *P. aeruginosa*.
  • *S. pneumoniae* and *S. sanguinis* exhibited 100% resistance to azithromycin, clindamycin, and ciprofloxacin.
  • Alarmingly high resistance was observed in *S. aureus* and *Acinetobacter baumannii*, including pan-resistant strains.

Conclusions:

  • This study highlights critical levels of antibiotic resistance among CAP pathogens in Iraq.
  • Urgent implementation of antibiotic stewardship programs and regulation of antibiotic sales is essential to combat rising AMR in Iraq.
Keywords:
Antibiotic resistanceAntimicrobial stewardshipCommunity-acquired pneumoniaS. sanguinis bacteria

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