Microbiological Profile and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern on Blood Culture Isolates Enrolled in Microbiology Department at Rajshahi Medical College

Abstract

Background: Blood stream infections (BSI) are a significant global health concern, contributing to both mortality and morbidity. These infections can range from mild to life threatening, often requiring antimicrobial treatment. Due to increasing antimicrobial resistance and changing patterns of antibiotic use, the epidemiology and outcomes of BSI are constantly evolving. Therefore, continuous monitoring of the bacterial causes of BSI and their antibiotic resistance pattern is necessary. Objective: To find out the bacteriological profile and their antibiotic sensitivity patterns among suspected BSI patients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Microbiology, Rajshahi medical college from January 2024 to December 2024. A total of 1228 suspected BSI patients were included in the study. The BacT/Alert automated blood culture method was used to isolate bacterial pathogens and antimicrobial susceptibility test was performed by modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method following CLSI 2024 guidelines. Results: Out of 1228 cases, 125 (10.17%) were culture positives, where male were 72(57.6%) and female were 53(42.4%). Among 125 culture positive cases, 86 (68.8%) were Gram negative bacteria and 39 (31.2%) were Gram positive bacteria. The most prevalent pathogens were Coagulase negative staphylococcus 29(23.2%) and E. coli 27(21.6%). Gram negative bacteria are resistant to Amoxyclav, 2^nd and 3^rd generation Cephalosporin and lower resistance was shown to Meropenem, Piperacilin/tazobactam and Amikacin. Conclusion: Regular monitoring of sensitivity patterns, creating hospital antibiotic policies based on current data and following treatment guidelines can encourage appropriate antibiotic use and reduce bacterial resistance.