Prevalencia de Infección del tracto urinario por bacterias uropatógenas y mecanismos de resistencia, en pacientes que acuden a un laboratorio de alta complejidad en Cuenca – Ecuador, 2021 – 2023.

Urinary tract infections (UTI) represent a global health problem and are one of the main reasons for medical consultation. The study aimed to identify the prevalence of the etiological agents responsible for UTIs and analyze their resistance mechanisms. A non-experimental, descriptive, retrospective and cross-sectional study was carried out, based on the review of microbiological records from the highly complex laboratory in Cuenca, covering the period 2021-2023. The population analyzed included 395 positive urine cultures, where it was determined that UTIs more frequently affect adults, especially women. The main microorganisms identified were Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Proteus mirabilis, with Escherichia coli being the predominant species. Furthermore, it was observed that Escherichia coli presents ESBL (extended spectrum β-lactamases) resistance, which makes it resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics. The study highlights the increase in bacterial resistance, particularly in ESBL-producing strains, which complicates the treatment of UTIs and increases the associated mortality. Factors such as the uncontrolled sale of antibiotics and the high rate of self-medication aggravate this problem, reducing therapeutic options and representing a significant challenge for public health.