Molecular Detection, Antibiotic Resistance, and Biofilm Formation of Clinical Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates from Patients in Al-Hillah, Babylon Province, Iraq

Abstract

Abstract Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is known as one of the main causes of nosocomial infections and is repeatedly related to opportunistic infections among hospitalized patients worldwide. Antibiotic resistance (AR) and biofilm-forming ability (BFA) are two major virulence factors of P. aeruginosa isolates that are involved in the continuation of infections. Objectives: This study aimed to isolate and identify P. aeruginosa isolates from patients and to elucidate the correlation between AR and BFA among isolates. Materials and Methods: A total of 130 clinical P. aeruginosa isolates were obtained from Al-Hillah Al-Sadiq Hospital in Babylon province, Iraq during the period from March to July 2022. AR profile and BFA of P. aeruginosa isolates were proceeded by Kirby-Bauer and Congo red agar (CRA) methods, respectively. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) screening, targeting the ecfX gene, was conducted to identify species-specific ecfX genes in P. aeruginosa. Results: Multidrug-resistant (MDR) P. aeruginosa accounted for 96.1% (125/130) and 85.4% (111/130) of isolates showed BFA. Statistical analyses showed a nonsignificant correlation between AR and BFA in P. aeruginosa isolates. The ecfX PCR product analyses affirmed their allocation to P. aeruginosa isolates. Conclusion: The high incidence of MDR and BFA among P. aeruginosa isolates might require a plan for regular evaluation and controlling policy programs.