Abstract

A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY TO ANALYZE THE USE OF ANTIBIOTICS IN ASYMPTOMATIC BACTERIURIA IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Sheik Haja Sherief*, Ashika Suresh, Nelita Dhavamani Nelson, Periswaran Velurugan, Samyuktha Krishnamoorthy, Balavinoth, Sivakumar and Sivakumar Thangavel

Abstract

Background: Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) is characterized by the presence of bacteria in urine without the symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI). It is common among certain populations, including women, the elderly, those with urinary catheters, pregnant women, long-term diabetics, immunocompromised individuals, and those who have recently undergone urinary procedures. Aim: This study aims to describe the use of antibiotics in asymptomatic bacteriuria among inpatients in a tertiary care hospital. Objectives: The specific objectives of this study include assessing the frequency of adverse events associated with antibiotic treatment for ASB and analyzing the costbenefit of such treatments. Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted from March to September 2023 at a tertiary care hospital, with Institutional Ethics Committee approval. Data from 120 subjects were collected and analyzed using statistical methods. Results:Among the 120 subjects with positive urine cultures, 59% were male and 41% were female, with the majority aged 60-70 years. The most common organism identified was Escherichia coli (57.5%), followed by Klebsiella species (18.3%), Enterococcus species (9.16%), and other organisms (15%). For ASB-specific cases, 39.2% were treated with antibiotics, while 60.8% were not treated. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of rational antibiotic use, cost-effectiveness and the prevention of antibiotic resistance in managing ASB. The findings underscore the necessity for an evidence-based approach to the evaluation and treatment of ASB to enhance patient outcomes and mitigate the risk of adverse effects and antibiotic resistance.

Keywords: Asymptomatic bacteriuria, urinary tract infection, antibiotic stewardship, Escherichia coli, antibiotic resistance, cost-effectiveness, patient outcomes, rational use of antibiotics.