Microbiological Profile and Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns of Isolates of Skin Specimens from the Department of Dermatology, Hospital Kuala Lumpur: A 3-Year Audit

ABSTRACT

Abstract Introduction: Due to the emergence of antibiotic resistance worldwide, the bacterial pathogens and susceptibility patterns causing skin infections should be monitored periodically to alert early intervention. This study aimed to analyse the bacterial profile and their antibiotic susceptibility patterns among the patients with cutaneous infections at Department of Dermatology, Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL). Methods: This retrospective analysis analysed the bacterial profile and the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of 1221 positive cultures obtained from skin swabs and biopsy specimens sent from the Department of Dermatology Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL) from 2013-2015. Results: Staphylococcus aureus (2/3 methicillin-sensitive, 1/3 methicillin-resistant) was the most frequent isolate (44%), followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (17.4%); Acinetobacter sp. (6.7%); Proteus sp. (6.1%); Klebsiella sp. (5.7%), Enterobacter sp. (3.0%), Escherichia coli (2.8%) and others. About 45% and 10% of MRSA was resistant to fucidic acid and mupirocin respectively. About 15% of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was resistant to ciprofloxacin. Majority of Acinetobacter sp. were resistant to most of the common antibiotics used. Conclusion: Staphylococcus aureus remained the main microorganisms isolated from patients with cutaneous bacterial infections. Empirical use of antibiotics prior to availability of culture sensitivity should be avoided for prevention of multi-resistant micro-organisms. We advocate judicious use of antibiotics based on results of the culture sensitivity and strict adherence to infection control measures to prevent development of antibiotic resistance.