Evaluation of Antibiotic Resistance Profile and Prevalence of Class I Integron in Klebsiella Pneumoniae Strains Isolated from Urinary Tract Infection

Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) is a well-known pathogen and contributes to different types of infections including urinary tract infection, blood stream infections, wound infections, and respiratory tract infections. The emergence of Integron-positive K. pneumoniae poses a considerable threat to public health worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the antibiotic resistance profile and prevalence of class I integron among K. pneumoniae strains isolated from urinary tract infections.

A total of 70 strains of K. pneumoniae isolated from urinary tract infections were evaluated. Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed using Kirby-Bauer’s disk diffusion method and Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was used to identify class I integron.

The isolates were mostly resistant against amikacin 24 (34.3 %) and ceftriaxone 22 (31.4 %). Also, the isolates had high susceptibility against imipenem and meropenem, with 95% of all isolates being susceptible. Class I integrons was detected in 10 (14.2%) of isolates.

The findings of this study revealed that the prevalence of amikacin -resistant isolates is relatively high and its use must be restricted. Also, regarding the prevalence of class I integron and in order to impede dissemination of antibiotic resistant clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae, constant monitoring of antibiotic resistant patterns and mechanisms are necessary.