Surveillance of multidrug-resistant bacterial isolates from bloodstream infections in Erbil, Iraq

Abstract

Introduction: When bacteria enter the bloodstream and grow, they produce toxins that cause systemic sickness; and this leads to bloodstream infections (BSIs). BSIs are a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in hospitals. Since infections produced by multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms are linked to greater mortality rates, the situation becomes even more complicated. This study evaluated the bacterial agents found in Erbil septicemia patients and investigated how resistant they were to antibiotics.

Methodology: Blood cultures were obtained from 81 patients at Maryamana Private Hospital who were suspected of having septicemia between March and October 2024. Automated laboratory equipment was used to identify the isolates and assess their susceptibility to antibiotics. Standard criteria were followed for classification into MDR, extensively drug-resistant (XDR), or pan-drug-resistant (PDR) categories.

Results: Around 57 (70.3%) of the 81 blood samples had bacterial growth. Around 32 (56.1%) were male and 25 (43.9%) were female. The majority were in the 30–59 years age group. More Gram-negative organisms (59.7%) than Gram-positive species (40.3%) were isolated. Staphylococcus aureus (16.1%) and Burkholderia cepacia (17.9%) were the most common bacteria. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains made for more than half of the total (55.5%). PDR was found among the Gram-negative isolates; 65.5% were MDR and 34.5% XDR.

Conclusions: The significant prevalence of resistant Gram-negative bacteria and MRSA highlights the critical need for quick diagnosis, careful antibiotic use, and improved infection control measures in healthcare environments.