Proteus species isolated from human eyes

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Proteus species are opportunistic pathogens that can cause serious eye infections.
• Understanding the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility of Proteus in ocular infections is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the species of Proteus isolated from human eye infections.
• To evaluate the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of antibiotics, particularly gentamicin, against these isolates.

Main Methods:

• Isolation and identification of Proteus species from human ocular samples.
• In vitro antibiotic sensitivity testing of Proteus isolates.
• In vivo efficacy study using experimental Proteus keratitis in rabbits treated with gentamicin and tobramycin.

Main Results:

• Proteus mirabilis (85%) and Proteus morganii (15%) were the predominant species isolated.
• Gentamicin demonstrated superior in vitro activity against both P. mirabilis and P. morganii compared to other tested antibiotics.
• In vivo, gentamicin and tobramycin showed comparable clinical outcomes in rabbit keratitis, but gentamicin was more effective in microbial eradication.

Conclusions:

• Proteus mirabilis and Proteus morganii are significant causes of bacterial keratitis.
• Gentamicin is a highly effective antibiotic for treating Proteus ocular infections, offering superior eradication potential in vivo.