Retrospective Observational Study of Microbiological Profile and Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns of Urine Samples Received in a Regional Cancer Hospital

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common complication in cancer patients, particularly those with indwelling catheters or urinary stents.The microbiological profile and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of urine samples from these patients can provide valuable insights into optimal treatment strategies.Objective: To analyze the microbiological profile and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of urine samples collected from patients admitted to our regional cancer hospital from January 2024 to June 2024.Materials and methods: In this retrospective observational study, a total of 2,088 urine samples were collected and processed using standard microbiological techniques.The isolated organisms were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), and their antibiotic susceptibility patterns were determined using the VITEK® 2 Compact automated system.Results: Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) were the most common organisms isolated (251/2,088, 12%), followed by gram-positive cocci (GPC) (29/2,088, 1.4%) and Candida species (24/2,088, 1.2%).Escherichia coli was the most commonly isolated organism, accounting for 146/251 (58.1%) of GNB isolates.The antibiotic susceptibility patterns revealed that E. coli was susceptible to tigecycline, amikacin, and gentamicin, while Pseudomonas aeruginosa was susceptible to imipenem, cefepime, and meropenem.Conclusion: This retrospective study highlights the importance of monitoring the microbiological profile and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of urine samples in cancer patients.E. coli remains a common cause of UTIs in this population, while Klebsiella pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa exhibit high rates of antibiotic resistance.Our findings underscore the need for tailored antibiotic therapy strategies to optimize treatment outcomes in cancer patients with UTIs.Recommendations: Regular surveillance of microbiological profiles and antibiotic susceptibility patterns among cancer patients with UTIs.Development of institutional guidelines for empirical antibiotic therapy based on local susceptibility patterns.Implementation of infection control measures to reduce the risk of nosocomial UTIs.