Bibliometric Analysis of Colistin-Related Theses in Türkiye

Objective In recent years, due to the limited number of novel antibiotics and the developing resistance to existing ones have become significant challenges. Colistin, an antibiotic known for its efficacy against some gram-negative bacteria especially Acinetobacter spp. and Klebsiella spp., was previously restricted due to its adverse effects, has reintroduced into clinical practice as a last-resort treatment option. In this study, it was aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis of the thesis studies on colistin in Turkey. Methods In this descriptive study, a search was made on the database of the National Thesis Center of the Council of Higher Education of Turkey, which includes theses written in Turkey, on December 10, 2024, using the keyword "colistin". 121 theses identified as a result of the screening were included in the study without applying any exclusion criteria. The data obtained are presented as numbers and percentages. Results It was determined that the majority of the studies were medical specialty theses. There has been an increase in the number of theses on colistin over the years, and the most studies were conducted in 2021. Most studies were conducted in the fields of Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. The studies focused not only on the efficacy of colistin but also on resistance mechanisms and side effect profiles. Among the 15 studies that specifically evaluated nephrotoxicity in human subjects, an average nephrotoxicity rate of 50% was reported. Conclusion This study reveals the growing academic interest and research trends regarding colistin in Türkiye. The findings show that as colistin re-enters clinical practice, its place in the scientific literature is strengthened. Further research on colistin’s efficacy and adverse effect profile is essential to provide comprehensive insights for its clinical use.