Empiric therapy for community acquired urinary tract infection in an era of increasing antimicrobial resistance

Abstract

Community-acquired urinary tract infections (CA-UTIs) are widespread bacterial infections often necessitating empirical antibiotic therapy. However, the escalating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a grave threat to treatment efficacy. This study aims to assess the prevalence of AMR in uropathogens causing CA-UTIs and its implications for empirical therapy. The study analyzed data from a tertiary care hospital, to determine AMR rates in common uropathogens, including and . Resistance levels to key antibiotics, such as Ampicillin, Ciprofloxacin, and Norfloxacin, were evaluated. Significant resistance rates were observed in uropathogens, with and showing marked resistance. Notably, resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics like Ampicillin, Ciprofloxacin, and Norfloxacin was widespread, highlighting the severity of the AMR crisis. The increasing AMR in CA-UTIs calls for a comprehensive approach. Strategies including local resistance pattern monitoring, antimicrobial stewardship programs and the recommendation of drugs like nitrofurantoin (with lower drug resistance potential) are crucial to maintain the effectiveness of empirical therapy. This study underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address AMR, ensuring effective CA-UTI management and safeguarding public health.