Frequency of Urinary Tract Infections and Causative Agents in Different Age Groups in Both Genders in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of urinary tract infections and their causative agents in different age groups in both genders. Materials and Methods: All urine samples received from February 2013 to October 2013 for culture and sensitivity in Baqai Laboratory (a subsidiary of Baqai University Hospital, Nazimabad, Karachi) were processed. Urine samples showing pyuria were inoculated on Cysteine Lactose Electrolyte Deficient (CLED) medium and blood agar and incubated at 37OC for 24 hours. Samples showing 105 organisms were considered to have significant bacteriuria. Organisms were identified by standard biochemical procedures. Results: Out of 633 samples inoculated, 40% (253) showed significant bacteriuria. Incidence of isolated uropathogens was E.coli (70%), Enterobacter species (9%), Enterococcus species (7.5%), Psudomonas species (5%), Klebsiella species (4%), Acinetobacter species (3.2%), Salmonella species (0.8%), Staph. aureus (less than 1%) and Candida (less than 1%). Genderwise distribution of patients: Male 36%, Female 64%. Predominent number of female patients was in reproductive age group while greater frequency in males was seen in patients above 55 years of age. Conclusion: There is higher frequency of urinary infections in females in reproductive age groups and more men with urinary infections were aged above 55. E.coli is the prominent causative organism