PREVALENCE OF KLEBSIELLA SPECIES AND THEIR SUSCEPTIBILITY PATTERN TO ANTIBIOTICS IN PATIENTS WITH URINARY TRACT INFECTION AT SUKKUR

Abstract

Background: Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) present a significant global health challenge, particularly due to the escalating issue of antimicrobial resistance. This study specifically addresses the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of Klebsiella species, a common uropathogen, within the Sukkur region of Pakistan.

Objectives: Our primary aims were to isolate UTI-causing bacteria from urine samples, identify Klebsiella species through biochemical testing, and determine their antibiotic susceptibility profiles.

Methods: A total of 150 urine samples were collected from suspected UTI patients in Sukkur. These samples underwent microbiological analysis, including isolation on CLED agar, Gram staining, and biochemical identification. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method.

Results: Out of 150 samples, 20 showed bacterial growth. Escherichia coli was the most frequent isolate (50%), followed by Klebsiella species (35%) and Streptococci (15%). Notably, all Klebsiella isolates exhibited 100% resistance to Cefoperazone/Sulbactam. High resistance was also observed against Amoxicillin (71%) and Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim (71%). Conversely, Flucloxacillin demonstrated 72% sensitivity.

Conclusion: The findings highlight a concerning prevalence of antibiotic-resistant Klebsiella species in Sukkur. This underscores the urgent need for continuous surveillance of uropathogens and their resistance trends. Implementing judicious antibiotic stewardship and utilizing localized susceptibility data are crucial for effective UTI management and combating antimicrobial resistance in the region