ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE PATTERN AND PLASMID PROFILING OF PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA ISOLATED FROM ICU PATIENTS

Pseudomonas aeruginosa remains a formidable nosocomial pathogen, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs), due to its intrinsic resistance mechanisms and capacity to acquire additional resistance determinants. This study aimed to elucidate the antibiotic resistance patterns and plasmid profiles of P. aeruginosa isolates obtained from ICU patients in Lahore, Pakistan, thereby contributing novel insights into the regional epidemiology of this pathogen. A total of 29 non-duplicate clinical isolates were collected over a 12-month period and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing and plasmid profiling. The findings revealed a high prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains, with significant resistance observed against carbapenems and fluoroquinolones. Plasmid analysis identified the presence of resistance genes, including bla_NDM-1 and bla_OXA-48, underscoring the role of plasmid-mediated gene transfer in the dissemination of resistance. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant association between prior antibiotic use and the emergence of MDR strains (p < 0.05). These results highlight the urgent need for stringent antibiotic stewardship and infection control measures to curb the spread of resistant P. aeruginosa in ICU settings. This study fills a critical gap in the understanding of resistance mechanisms in P. aeruginosa within the Pakistani healthcare context and sets the stage for future research into targeted therapeutic strategies.