A Molecular and Genetic Study of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Escherichia coli Isolated from Selected Iraqi Patients

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections and, as such, Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most frequently found uropathogen. The aim of this study was to evaluate the resistance gene prevalence of bacterial isolates in 40 urine samples from patients with UTIs, as well as antibiotic resistance rates. E. coli comprised 50%; Klebsiella pneumoniae, 20%; Proteus spp., 15%; Staphylococcus spp., 10%; and Enterobacter spp., 5%. We confirmed the presence of resistance genes by molecular identification using PCR; in 90% of the isolates, we found Sul1 and in 5% dfrA. Sulfamethoxazole resistance (85%) and trimethoprim resistance (12.5%) were found by antibiotic susceptibility testing. No significant differences in bacterial prevalence or resistance patterns by gender or age were found in these results by statistical analysis. To combat the expanding threat of antibiotic resistance in UTIs, these findings highlight the need for antimicrobial stewardship programs and molecular diagnostic algorithms. Results from this study help to define the genetic mechanisms of resistance, underscore the continued need for sustained surveillance and appropriately targeted interventions to reduce the spread of resistant pathogens and improve treatment outcomes.