ABSTRACT
Rhinitis is a prevalent nasal condition characterized by inflammation of the nasal mucosa, often resulting in symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, itching, and rhinorrhea. Despite its widespread occurrence, the demographic characteristics and microbial profiles associated with rhinitis remain underexplored in many populations. This study aimed to investigate the demographic characteristics, microbial profile, and antibiotic sensitivity patterns among patients diagnosed with rhinitis. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 41 patients diagnosed with rhinitis at a tertiary care hospital. Demographic data including age, gender, alcohol consumption, and smoking history were collected using structured questionnaires. Nasal swabs were obtained and cultured for bacterial and fungal identification. Antibiotic sensitivity testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays were conducted to determine the potency of selected antibiotics.
A diverse range of age groups participated in the study, with young adults (21-25 years) comprising the majority (55.7%) and females constituted 83.6% of the study population. Nasal discharge was the most prevalent symptom (36 patients), with cold weather, dust, and smoke identified as common triggers. Staphylococcus spp. was the most prevalent bacterial species (51%), while Candida parapsilosis was the most prevalent fungal isolate (50%).
Sensitivity testing demonstrated varying degrees of susceptibility to antibiotics, with Staphylococcus spp. showing sensitivity to perfloxacin, ofloxacin, Amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, Amoxicillin-clavulinic acid combination and Gentamicin. MIC assays highlighted the potent bactericidal effects of ciprofloxacin. This comprehensive analysis sheds light on the demographic characteristics, microbial profile, and antibiotic sensitivity patterns among patients with rhinitis. The occurence of specific microbial species and their susceptibility to antibiotics underscores the importance of targeted treatment approaches in managing rhinitis-associated infections.
Further research is warranted to explore additional factors influencing rhinitis pathogenesis and treatment outcomes. Longitudinal studies tracking demographic trends and microbial dynamics could provide deeper insights into the evolving nature of rhinitis-associated infections and inform the development of more effective therapeutic interventions
