Antimicrobial resistance of enterobacteriaceae in urinary tract infections in patients treated in the Clinilab Laboratory

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the second most prevalent infectious diseases after respiratory infections and are a leading cause of outpatient visits. Escherichia coli is the most frequently isolated pathogen in hospitalized patients and the general community. This study aims to assess the antimicrobial resistance of Enterobacteriaceae in UTIs at the Clinilab laboratory, analyze the distribution of urinary infections by sex and age group, identify the predominant Enterobacteriaceae species responsible for UTIs, and examine antibiotic resistance patterns among Enterobacteriaceae in urinary infections. Methodology: This research employed an observational, descriptive-retrospective, cross-sectional design with a qualitative, non-experimental approach. Results: Among the 100 patients analyzed, 50 did not exhibit UTIs. The highest prevalence of UTIs was observed in individuals aged 45 to 50 years. Escherichia coli emerged as the most predominant Enterobacteriaceae species, demonstrating significant resistance to antibiotics such as Amikacin, Ciprofloxacin, Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole, Gentamicin, and Levofloxacin. The prevalence of UTIs varies according to sex and age, with women being at significantly higher risk due to anatomical factors such as shorter urethras and hormonal fluctuations. Escherichia coli remains the principal pathogen responsible for UTIs and exhibits considerable antibiotic resistance, posing a growing public health concern.