Alhazmi AH, Alameer KM, Abuageelah BM, Gharawi AY, Hakami EF, Zogel TA, Almalki AJ, Magrashi EG, Alharbi WA, Manni RM, Buayti AA, Alharbi AA, Dhayhi NS, Haddad M. Epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance patterns of bacterial meningitis among hospitalized patients at a tertiary care hospital in Saudi Arabia: a six-year retrospective study.
Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2024;
43:1383-1392. [PMID:
38683272 DOI:
10.1007/s10096-024-04835-6]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Bacterial meningitis poses significant medical challenges due to its acute inflammatory nature and potential for severe neurological complications, emphasizing the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment. Limited data exists on its epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance trends among hospitalized patients in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to investigate these factors at a tertiary care hospital over six years.
METHODS
A retrospective analysis was conducted on cerebrospinal fluid samples results from 222 bacterial meningitis cases among hospitalized patients between 2018 and 2023. Demographic, clinical, microbiological data, and antibiotic susceptibility patterns were collected and analyzed.
RESULTS
Pseudomonas aeruginosa (43%) was the predominant pathogen isolated. Neonates (16%) and children (47%) were most affected population. Nosocomial meningitis accounted for 92% of cases, mainly in the intensive care settings (50.45%). Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase was the leading resistance pattern (12.2%). Seasonal variation was observed, with a peak incidence in October-November.
CONCLUSION
The study highlights the substantial burden of bacterial meningitis among hospitalized patients, especially among high-risk groups. Emerging antimicrobial resistance emphasizes the need for optimized surveillance and stewardship. Future prospective research employing molecular techniques across multiple centers in the country is warranted to enhance understanding and guide public health strategies in Saudi Arabia.
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