PREVALENCE OF UROPATHOGENIC Escherichia coli AMONG MALE AND FEMALE PATIENTS

ABSTRACT

Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is one of the major causes of urinary tract infections (UTIs) seen in individuals. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) among male and female patients at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Edo State, Nigeria. A total of 300 samples were collected from suspected urinary tract infection (UTI) cases, with 150 samples from each gender and analysed using standard microbiological methods. The analysis of their early morning “Clean clatch” midstream urine and catheterized urine (CU) revealed a higher prevalence of UPEC in female patients (4.7%) compared to males (2.7%). Candida albicans was the most prevalent isolate in both males (22.7%) and females (32%). Age-based analysis showed varying prevalence rates among different age groups for both genders, with no statistically significant differences. Additionally, the sensitivity of UPEC pathogens to various antibiotics was assessed. Among male patients, augmentin and imipenem showed high sensitivity, while nalidixic acid and penicillin exhibited significant resistance. In female patients, furantin, levofloxacin, and gentamicin demonstrated notable sensitivity, while nalidixic acid and penicillin resistance were prominent. These findings emphasize the higher prevalence of UPEC in female patients and provide valuable insights into antibiotic sensitivity patterns, aiding in effective UTI management strategies.