A Cross-Sectional Study of Antimicrobial Resistance Pattern Across Two States in Nigeria

Antimicrobial resistance has been declared by the World Health Organization as a threat to countries and across various sectors. This study aimed to analyze antimicrobial resistance patterns of the common pathogens occurring in the Federal Capital Territory and Lagos states of Nigeria. A retrospective analysis of microbiological culture results from five private and public laboratories between January and April 2016 in Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). A total of 544 isolates were obtained from the five laboratories. Urine 137 (25.2%), was the most prominent specimen, followed by Stool 64 (11.7%). Out of 374 specimens that yielded growth after culture, gram-negative isolates were the most prevalent bacteria 169 (56%). There were significantly more samples from FCT and by gender (P=0.03) compared to Lagos (P=0.0003). There was no significant association between the type of bacteria isolate and location. The predominant gram-positive bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus 94 (70%), while gram-negative bacteria were Klebsiella species 67 (40%). Multi-drug resistance was observed in 202 (62%) of isolated urogenital pathogens. Maximum resistance was observed with commonly used first-line antimicrobials such as cotrimoxazole, tetracycline, second-generation cephalosporins -Cefotetan, and third generation Cephalosporins -Ceftriaxone. Staphylococcus aureus had the highest antimicrobial resistance expression (93.6%) within the gram positives, with multiple drug resistance to all the antibiotics. Our survey revealed a rising rate of antimicrobial resistance to commonly used antibiotics. We recommend the prudent use of antibiotics to limit the spread of antimicrobial resistance.