PREVALENCE AND ANTIBIOGRAM PROFILES OF Klebsiella Pneumoniae CULTURED FROM PATIENTS WITH SUSPECTED URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a Gram-negative bacterium that plays a critical role as a causative agent of urinary tract infections (UTIs). This bacterium is particularly important in hospital environments, where its ability to acquire antibiotic resistance mechanisms presents major therapeutic difficulties. The emergence of multidrug-resistant strains, especially those producing extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), has been associated with treatment failure, prolonged illness, and increased mortality. The present study was designed to investigate the frequency of K. pneumoniae infections and determine the resistance profile among patients clinically suspected of having UTIs at the State Specialist Hospital, Osogbo Osun State Nigeria. A cross-sectional approach was employed, involving 240 urine samples collected from patients aged 18 years and above. Specimens were cultured on MacConkey agar and incubated for 24 hours at 37°C, and the isolates were characterised using Gram staining and biochemical tests in accordance with the approved standard. Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion technique, while ESBL activity was identified through the double-disc synergy method.The study revealed a prevalence of 20% for K. pneumoniae among participants. Infections were more common in hospitalised individuals (13.3%) compared to those managed as outpatients (6.7%). High resistance rates were observed against ampicillin (85%), ceftriaxone (65%), amoxicillin–clavulanic acid (60%), erythromycin (60%), and ciprofloxacin (75%). However, isolates retained good sensitivity to amikacin (80%) and chloramphenicol (70%). ESBL production was detected in one-quarter (25%) of the isolates, with a greater proportion among inpatients. In conclusion, the study provides valuable evidence for the local epidemiology of K. pneumoniae in Osogbo and reinforces the necessity for continuous surveillance, strict infection control measures, and rational antibiotic use to limit the spread of resistant strains and improve clinical outcomes.