Frequency of Urinary Tract Infection and Bacteriological Profile in Dir Lower Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTI) are among the most common bacterial infections, with their incidence and the causative pathogens' profile exhibiting significant geographical variability. In Pakistan, data regarding UTI prevalence and pathogen profiles are limited and varied, highlighting the need for localized studies. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and bacteriological profile of UTIs in patients attending a laboratory in Dir Lower Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and to compare these with regional data. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 110 urine samples collected from symptomatic patients at Al Shifa Laboratory, Samarbagh, Dir Lower, Pakistan, from November to December 2023. Samples exhibiting pyuria (>5 pus cells per high power field) underwent culture and sensitivity testing. Age and gender distributions were analyzed, and the presence of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria was identified and quantified. SPSS version 25 was utilized for statistical analysis. Results: Of the 110 patients suspected of UTI, pyuria was present in 53.63% (n=59), with a culture positivity rate of 72.88% (n=43) for those with pyuria. The prevalence of UTI was higher in females, with a 1.5 times greater occurrence than males. The most commonly isolated pathogens were Escherichia coli (34.88%), Staphylococcus saprophyticus (27.90%), and Pseudomonas spp. (13.95%). Age distribution showed the highest prevalence in the 41-50 years category (39.53%). Conclusion: The study demonstrated a higher prevalence of pyuria and UTI culture positivity compared to some regional data, with a significant gender predisposition towards females. Escherichia coli remains the predominant pathogen. These findings underscore the necessity for proper sample collection and immediate processing, alongside tailored approaches to diagnosis and treatment based on local bacteriological profiles.