Prevalence of Aminoglycoside Resistance among Escherichia coli Isolated from UTI Patients in Sana’a City, Yemen

Abstract

Background:
Antimicrobial resistance is a critical global threat, particularly in urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by Escherichia coli. The rise in aminoglycoside-resistant strains complicates treatment. This study investigated the prevalence of aminoglycoside resistance among E. coli isolated from patients with UTI in Sana’a city, Yemen.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted on 378 patients at Al-Kuwait University Hospital in Sana’a City. Midstream morning urine samples were cultured, and E. coli isolates were identified using standard methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method according to the CLSI (2019) guidelines.
Aminoglycoside resistance was phenotypically detected.
Results:
Among the 378 samples, 167 E. coli isolates were identified (44.18%), of which 41(24.6%) exhibited resistance to at least one clinically critical aminoglycoside (gentamicin, tobramycin, or amikacin). The risk factors for resistance included catheterization, hospitalization, and older age.

Conclusion:
The high prevalence of aminoglycoside-resistant E. coli strains in Yemen underscores the need for enhanced molecular surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship.