16S Ribosomal Gene Sequencing, Phylogeny and Multidrug Resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolated from Clinical Samples at a Tertiary Healthcare Facility in Nigeria

Abstract

This work sequenced 16S ribosomal gene, determined phylogeny and multidrug resistance of pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from clinical samples at a tertiary healthcare facility in Nigeria. A total of 184 clinical specimens were collected from patients and were characterized by standard methods of culturing and biochemical tests. One of the bacterial isolates was selected and subjected to molecular identification using 16S rRNA gene sequencing by Sanger method. P. aeruginosa was subjected to antibiotic sensitivity testing by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion technique. After culturing, 94 (51.08%) were positive for bacterial growth; out of 94 isolates of P. aeruginosa, 15 (15.96%) were from ear swabs, 14 (14.89%) from skin swabs, 20 (21.28%) from burn wound samples, 18 (19.15) from used cotton wool, 12 (12.76%) from catheter, and 4 (4.25% each) from urine and sputum. Also, this study recorded high prevalence rate of isolates among the female than male (63.83% and 36.17%, respectively), and the highest average (34%) of isolates were recorded among the age group 36-45 years and the lowest prevalence (5.22%) was recorded among the age group 15-25 years. The isolate demonstrated high resistance to beta-lactams (Ampicillin, Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Cloxacillin, Augmentin and Ceftazidime). Results also revealed resistance to macrolide (Erythromycin) and sulphonamide (Septrin); and the organism was resistant to two aminoglycosides (Gentamycin and Amikacin) but sensitive to chloramphenicol. The quinolones (Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin and Norfloxacin) were very effective against the bacterium. There was statistically significant difference amongst the zones of inhibition at (P≤ 0.05) exhibited by the different antibiotics. The quinolones may therefore be considered as reserve drugs for the treatment of P. aeruginosa infections. To avoid resistance development, illicit use of antibiotics is not advised. Continued monitoring of antimicrobial resistance patterns in hospitals and community settings is imperative to provide effective therapeutic options.