ANTIBIOTIC SENSITIVITY PATTERN AND BLOOD CULTURE CONFIRMATION OF TYPHOID

Abstract

Typhoid fever, caused by the bacterium Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi, is a serious global health concern, particularly in areas with poor resources and sanitation. It is characterized by prolonged fever, abdominal discomfort, and other symptoms affecting the entire body. This retrospective study aimed to identify antibiotic sensitivity patterns and confirm cases of typhoid, thus contributing to the understanding of typhoid treatment in the population under study. The study was conducted at the Department of Medicine at the Medical Teaching Institution (MTI) Lady Reading Hospital (LRH), Peshawar, from January 2020 to July 2021, and included 100 patients. Demographic data, including age and gender, along with clinical information on typhoid fever diagnostic symptoms and indications, were collected. The results of antibiotic sensitivity tests were also recorded, showing the resistance rates to significant antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, ampicillin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. The study found that 60% of patients were male and 40% were female, with an average age of 28.5±6.2 years. Patients' ages were as follows: 30% between 18 and 25, 40% between 26 and 35, 20% between 36 and 45, 7% between 46 and 55, and 3% 56 and older. The study population was predominantly younger, with a slightly higher proportion of males. Overall, this study offers valuable insights into typhoid fever's demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, and drug susceptibility patterns in this community.