Bacteriological spectrum, extended-spectrum ß-lactamase production and antimicrobial resistance pattern among patients with bloodstream infection in Addis Ababa.

Bloodstream infection coupled with drug resistance in bloodborne bacteria is a major health problem globally. The current study sought to identify the bacterial spectrum, extended-spectrum -lactamase production, and antimicrobial resistance pattern in patients with bloodstream infection. This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at Arsho Advanced Medical Laboratory, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from January 2019- until July 2020. Blood collected from patients was inoculated into blood culture bottles and incubated appropriately. Identification, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and extended-spectrum ß-lactamase-production were determined with the VITEK 2 compact system. Of the samples collected, 156 (18.5%) were culture-positive. Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus epidermidis were the dominant isolates. In Gram-negative bacteria, the prevalence of drug resistance was the highest against ampicillin (80.8%) and the lowest against imipenem (5.2%). While in Gram-positive bacteria it was the highest against clindamycin and the lowest against vancomycin and daptomycin. The prevalence of multi-drug resistance and extended-spectrum ß-lactamase production of Gram-negative bacteria were 41.6% and 34.2%, respectively. The prevalence of bloodstream infection was 18.5%. Serious life-threatening pathogens including S. aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Enterobacter spp was predominant. The prevalence of multi-drug resistance to both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and extended-spectrum ß-lactamase-production were high but prevalence of carbapenem resistance was low. All these situations call for the establishment of strong infection control strategies, a drug regulatory system, and established antibiotic stewardship in healthcare settings.

Effect of sputum quality and role of Xpert® MTB/ RIF assay for detection of smear-negative pulmonary tuberculosis in same-day diagnosis strategy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Background: There is limited information on the performance of the Xpert® MTB/RIF test for diagnosis of smear-negative pulmonary tuberculosis (SNPT) and rifampicin resistance (RR) in the same-day diagnosis approach. The effects of sputum quality and other factors affecting the Xpert performance are also under-investigated. Objective: This study aimed to determine the performance of the Xpert® MTB/RIF test for detection of SNPT and RR in the same-day diagnosis strategy and the effect of sputum quality and other factors on its performance. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2017 to January 2018 across 16 health facilities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Two spot sputum samples were collected from 418 presumptive SNPT patients, tested with Xpert® MTB/RIF, then compared to tuberculosis culture. Additionally, culture isolates were tested for RR by BACTEC MGIT™ 960 drug susceptibility testing (DST) and MTBDRplus version 2. Results: The Xpert® MTB/RIF test detected 24 (5.7%) SNPT cases, with a sensitivity of 92.3% (75.9% - 97.9%) and specificity of 99.2% (97.8% - 99.7%) compared with tuberculosis culture. Xpert® MTB/RIF also detected three (11.58%) RR strains with 100.0% concordance with BACTEC MGIT™ 960 DST and MTBDRplus results. Three blood-stained SNPT samples were positive by Xpert (30.0%), which was 6.9 times higher compared to salivary sputum (odds ratio: 6.9, 95% confidence interval: 1.36-34.96, p = 0.020). Conclusion: The performance of the Xpert® MTB/RIF to detect SNPT and RR in same-day diagnosis is high. However, SNPT positivity varies among sputum qualities, and good sample collection is necessary for better test performance.

A High Level of Antimicrobial Resistance in Gram-Positive Cocci Isolates from Different Clinical Samples Among Patients Referred to Arsho Advanced Medical Laboratory, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Background: Gram-positive cocci are clinically important pathogens that cause infections and their development of antibiotic resistance continues to pose a severe threat to public health. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the level of antimicrobial resistance among Gram-positive cocci isolated from different clinical samples among patients referred to Arsho Advanced Medical Laboratory, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: From January to April 2018, a cross-sectional study was conducted at Arsho Advanced Medical Laboratory. Seven hundred ninety-two (792) different clinical samples were obtained from 792 individuals and inoculated into blood culture bottles and Blood Agar base. Bacterial identification was done using the number, type, and morphology of colonies, as well as Gram staining, catalase testing, and coagulase test after isolation of pure growth on culture media using the standard operating procedure. VITEK 2 compact system was used for bacterial identification and drug susceptibility testing. The information entry and analysis were performed by using SPSS version 20. Results: Out of 792 clinical samples cultured, the prevalence of Gram-positive cocci was 12.6% (n=100/792). The most frequent one is S. aureus 54% (n=54/100) followed by coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species 42% (n=42/100), S. agalactiae 1% (n=1/100) and E. faecalis 3% (n=3/100). Penicillin showed the highest resistance rate 85% (n=85/100), followed by sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (47%), and oxacillin (38%); however, highest sensitivity was seen towards linezolid 97% (n=97/100) and vancomycin 94% (n=94/100). The total multi-drug resistance (MDR) Gram-positive cocci were 44% (n=44/100). Conclusion: This study demonstrated high antimicrobial resistance and multi-drug resistance. This suggests that the importance of continuous monitoring of antimicrobial resistance patterns is crucial for selecting the suitable drug for treatment and infection prevention.

High Trichophyton violaceum-Induced Tinea Capitis with Isolation of Many Non-Dermatophyte Molds in Scalp Scrapings in Patients Referred to a Dermatology Clinic in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Objective: This work aimed to determine the magnitude of tinea capitis, the diversity and species composition of fungi, and the predominant dermatophytes implicated in causing tinea capitis. Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted at a dermatology clinic. Scalp scrapings were collected and cultured, and dermatophyte and non-dermatophyte molds were identified. Results: Of 364 scalp scrapings, fungi were recovered from 301 (82.7%) clinical samples. About 60.7% of the samples were collected from women, while 39.3% were collected from male study subjects. The association between the magnitude of scalp ringworm and gender was not statistically significant (P = 0.105). Two hundred eighty study subjects were less than 15 years of age, of which 254 were culture positive. The association of tinea capitis and the age of patients was statistically significant (P = 0). Three hundred forty-nine fungal isolates were isolated, of which 54.2% were dermatophytes, while 45.8% were non-dermatophyte molds. The occurrence of dermatophytes in their decreasing order was T. violaceum (138; 73%), Trichophyton mentagrophytes (18; 9.5%), Trichophyton tonsurans (16; 8.5%), Trichophyton verrucosum (8; 4.5%), Microsporum audouinii (7; 3.7%), Trichophyton schoenleinii (1; 0.5%), and Trichophyton soudanense (1; 0.5%). Conclusion: A high prevalence rate of T. violaceum-induced tinea capitis was reported. The magnitude of scalp ringworm in adults was remarkably high. Therefore, conducting a nationwide epidemiological survey on tinea capitis regardless of age is suggested. The isolation of many non-dermatophyte molds in the current study may shade questions about the perception that tinea capitis is caused by dermatophytes only. Therefore, studies on their potential pathogenic role on skin and skin-related (nail and the scalp) infections appear to be an active field of research.

Bacterial and Fungal Profile, Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns of Bacterial Pathogens and Associated Risk Factors of Urinary Tract Infection Among Symptomatic Pediatrics Patients Attending St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Urinary tract infection is a common infection in pediatrics. Understanding the common etiology of urinary tract infections, their antimicrobial susceptibility pattern, and associated risk factors in a particular setting can provide evidence for the appropriate treatment of the cases. Purpose: The current study is aimed to determine the common etiology and prevalence of uropathogens associated with urinary tract infection, as well as the antibiotic susceptibility profile of bacterial isolates, and to identify risk factors associated with urinary tract infection among pediatric patients. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted at St. Paul Hospital Millennium Medical College between October 2019 and July 2020. Urine was collected aseptically from patients, inoculated onto culture media, and incubated at 37 °C for 18-48 hours. Bacteria and yeast were identified following standard procedures. Antibiotic susceptibility testing of bacterial pathogens was carried out by the Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method. Descriptive statistics and logistical regressions were used to estimate the crude ratio with a 95% confidence interval. P-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Significant bacterial/fungal growth was observed in 65 samples giving a prevalence of 28.6% of which 75.4% (49/65) and 24.6% (16/65) were bacterial and fungal pathogens, respectively. About 79.6% of bacterial etiology were Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The highest resistance was observed against ampicillin (100%), cefazolin (92.1%), and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (84.1%), both of which are commonly used for empirical treatment in Ethiopia. Length of hospital stay (P=0.01) and catheterization (P=0.04) were statistically associated with urinary tract infection. Conclusion: The high prevalence of urinary tract infection was observed in our study. Enterobacteriaceae were the major cause of urinary tract infection. Length of hospital stay and catheterization were significantly associated with urinary tract infection. Both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria were extremely resistant to ampicillin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.

Bacterial Contamination and Susceptibility Pattern Among Blood and Blood Components Using Divergent and Non-Divergent Collection Methods at Armed Forces Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Background: Understanding the proportion of blood and blood products contamination during transfusion is important in developing infection control strategy in the health system. Therefore, this study was aimed to determine bacterial contamination and susceptibility patterns among blood and blood components at Armed Forces Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done on blood and blood components collected with both diverging and none-diverging methods. Simple random sampling method was applied to select blood and blood product units from the record form and 10 mL of sample was drawn from each blood and blood product. Culturing from collected blood and blood products and antimicrobial sensitivity tests were done. The collected data were entered and analyzed by SPSS statistical software version 20. Binary and multiple logistic regression analysis were done to see different factors and p-values less than 0.05 were taken as statistically significant. Results: A total of three hundred seventy six (376) units of blood and blood product samples, 188 from non-diverging and 188 from diverging blood donor collection methods were included. Among different blood group types, O+ blood and the majority of components were stored from one to five days. The overall bacterial contamination among blood and blood components were n = 17 (4.5%). Among them, n = 14 (7.4%) and n = 3 (1.6%) were collected with a non-diverging and diverging method, respectively. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most dominant isolate. Most bacterial isolates were susceptible to different antimicrobial agents; however, Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed resistance for gentamicin. The non-diverging collection units of blood and components were significantly associated with bacterial contamination. Of all, n = 5/17 (29.4%) isolated bacteria were multidrug resistant. Conclusion: The bacterial contamination of blood and blood components collected with diverging method was lower and recommended to use this collection method from donors.

Non-Dermatophyte Mold Dominated Onychomycosis in Patients Attending a Rank Higher Specialized Dermatology Clinic in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Background: Onychomycosis is a common refractory fungal infection associated with significant morbidity. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of onychomycosis, and the diversity and species composition of fungal etiological agents. Materials and Methods: A clinic-based, prospective, non-randomized cross-sectional study was carried out between October 2018 and June 2019 at Rank Higher Specialized Dermatology Clinic, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Nail scrapings were collected aseptically from 200 patients clinically identified with nail disorders of fungal origin by dermatologists. Fungal etiological agents were identified microscopically and by culture method following standard procedures. Results: Among 200 nail scrapings, 161 (80.5%) samples were found out to be culture positive. Of these, 135 (83.9%) samples yielded single colonies while 26 (16.1%) mixed colonies gave a total of 190 isolates. Among the isolates, 25.8% were dermatophytes while 61.1% were non- dermatophytes molds, and 13.1% were yeasts. Females were more likely to present dystrophic nails than men. Patients in the middle age group were more affected. Trichophyton interdigitale, Aspergillus spp, and Candida albicans were the dominant species. Conclusion: The prevalence rate of onychomycosis in the present study was high. The isolation rate of non-dermatophyte molds was higher than dermatophytes and yeasts. Trichophyton interdigitale, Aspergillus spp, and Candida albicans were the dominant etiological agents. Females and patients in the middle age group were more affected. An increase in the prevalence of non-dermatophyte molds in nail infections dictates further investigation demonstrating how this group of fungi causes onychomycosis.

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections in adult intensive care units at a selected tertiary hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Catheter-associated urinary tract infection is the leading cause of hospital-acquired infections. They remain the second most common healthcare-associated infection in critically sick patients. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of catheter-associated urinary tract infection, the spectrum of etiological agents, antibiotic sensitivity profile of bacterial pathogens among adult patients admitted to intensive care units. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients admitted to the intensive care unit of hospitals in Addis Ababa who were on urethral indwelling catheters for >48 hours from October 2020 to September 2021 were included in the study. Urine specimens were aseptically collected and processed as per standard protocols. Microorganisms were isolated, identified, and subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing. RESULTS: In all 220 pateints included in the study development of significant bacteriuria/candiduria was not affected by sex, age, and prior antibiotic therapy. However, the length of stay in the intensive care unit was significantly associated with bacteriuria /candiduria (P-value < 0.001). The overall prevalence of bacteriuria/candiduria was 51.4% among which 21.0%, 19.1%, and 11.4% were bacteriuria, candiduria, and polymicrobial infections, respectively. About 138 organisms were recovered of which 79 (57.25%) were bacteria and 59 (42.75%) were yeast isolates. Acinetobacter species, Pseudomonas species, Klebsiella species E. coli, and Enterococcus species were the dominant bacterial isolates. Candida. albicans, Candida. krusei and Candida. tropicalis were the commonest yeasts. Many gram-negative bacterial isolates were resistant to ceftriaxone 36(94.7%), ampicillin 21(91.3%) followed by cefotaxime34(89.5%), amikacin (16.0%), nitrofurantoin (17.4%), meropenem (20.0%) and imipenem (20.0%). Out of 79 bacterial pathogens, 52(65.8%) were multiple antibiotic resistant of which 37(71.0%) were Gram-negative bacteria and 15(29%%) were Gram-positive bacteria. About 13(86.7%) isolates of Acinetobacter, all isolates of Klebsiella species (100%) and E. coli (100%) were multiple antibiotic-resistant. Out Of 18,10(55.56%), isolates of Enterococcus were multiple antibiotic-resistant. CONCLUSIONS: A very high prevalence of bacteriuria/ candiduria was demonstrated in this study. This warrants the establishment of multidimensional infection control approach on catheter associated urinary tract infection in ICU. In addition to high prevalence of candiduria, recovery of non-albicans candida species almost in equal proportion with candida albicans in the present study was an important finding as non-albicans candida species distinct to C. albicans are intrinsically resistant to the commonly used azole antifungal drugs in Ethiopia. The prevalence of rate MDR bacteria in our ICU particularly of E. coli, Klebsiella spp, Pseudomonas and Acetobacter spp was very high. In order to combat this problem, proper antibiotic policies should be formulated.

Phenotypic characterization of carbapenem non-susceptible gram-negative bacilli isolated from clinical specimens.

BACKGROUND: Multidrug resistant, extremely drug-resistant, pan-drug resistant, carbapenem-resistant, and carbapenemase-producing gram-negative bacteria are becoming more common in health care settings and are posing a growing threat to public health. OBJECTIVE: The study was aimed to detect and phenotypically characterize carbapenem no- susceptible gram-negative bacilli at the Ethiopian Public Health Institute. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from June 30, 2019, to May 30, 2020, at the national reference laboratory of the Ethiopian Public Health Institute. Clinical samples were collected, inoculated, and incubated for each sample in accordance with standard protocol. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Identification was done using the traditional biochemical method. Multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant isolates were classified using a standardized definition established by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the United States Centers for Disease Prevention and Control. Gram-negative organisms with reduced susceptibility to carbapenem antibiotics were considered candidate carbapenemase producers and subjected to modified carbapenem inactivation and simplified carbapenem inactivation methods. Meropenem with EDTA was used to differentiate metallo-ß-lactamase (MBL) from serine carbapenemase. Meropenem (MRP)/meropenem + phenylboronic acid (MBO) were used to differentiate Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) from other serine carbapenemase producing gram-negative organisms. RESULTS: A total of 1,337 clinical specimens were analyzed, of which 429 gram-negative bacterial isolates were recovered. Out of 429 isolates, 319, 74, and 36 were Enterobacterales, Acinetobacter species, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa respectively. In our study, the prevalence of multidrug-resistant, extensively drug-resistant, carbapenemase-producing, and carbapenem nonsusceptible gram-negative bacilli were 45.2%, 7.7%, 5.4%, and 15.4% respectively. Out of 429 isolates, 66 demonstrated reduced susceptibility to the antibiotics meropenem and imipenem. These isolates were tested for carbapenemase production of which 34.8% (23/66) were carbapenemase producers. Out of 23 carbapenemase positive gram-negative bacteria, ten (10) and thirteen (13) were metallo-beta-lactamase and serine carbapenemase respectively. Three of 13 serine carbapenemase positive organisms were Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase. CONCLUSION: This study revealed an alarming level of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), with a high prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extremely drug-resistant, carbapenemase-producing gram-negative bacteria, particularly among intensive care unit patients at the health facility level. These findings point to a scenario in which clinical management of infected patients becomes increasingly difficult and necessitates the use of "last-resort" antimicrobials likely exacerbating the magnitude of the global AMR crisis. This mandates robust AMR monitoring and an infection prevention and control program.

Profiling of potential pulmonary fungal pathogens and the prevalence of the association between pulmonary tuberculosis and potential fungal pathogens in presumptive tuberculosis patients referred to Saint Peter's Specialized Tuberculosis Referral Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

OBJECTIVE: The burden of pulmonary fungal infection is increasing and often misdiagnosed as pulmonary tuberculosis in developing countries where the prevalence of pulmonary tuberculosis is high. |Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the spectrum of potential pulmonary fungal pathogens and the prevalence of the association between pulmonary tuberculosis and potential fungal pathogens. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2018 and May 2019. Sputum was collected from 636 study participants. Part of the sputum was inoculated onto Brain Heart Infusion agar, and fungi were identified following standard microbiological procedures. The remaining part of the sample was used for the investigation of pulmonary tuberculosis. RESULTS: Among 636 sputum samples, 75.9% (483) and 25.6% (163) were positive for potential fungal pathogens and pulmonary tuberculosis, respectively. The prevalence of the association between pulmonary tuberculosis and potential fungal pathogens was 20.0%. Of fungal isolates, 81.4% were yeasts. The remaining 128 (18.6%) isolates were molds. The isolation rate of fungi was higher in males (51.6%) than in females (48.4%). There was no statistically significant association between the prevalence of potential pulmonary fungal pathogens and sex (p = 0.239). Patients in the age group of 35 to 44 and above were slightly more affected than younger age groups. The association between potential fungal pathogens and age was not statistically significant (p = 0.50). CONCLUSION: High prevalence of potential pulmonary fungal pathogens and the association of tuberculosis and potential fungal pathogens recorded in this study will enforce health personnel to pay due attention to these conditions and arise the interest of researchers to conduct further work on the burden of the association between tuberculosis and potential fungal pathogens. Our study also revealed the need to employ conventional microbiology tests along with clinical and radiological evidence since clinical manifestations and radiological pictures of tuberculosis mimic that of pulmonary fungal infection.

Bacterial and fungal profile, drug resistance pattern and associated factors of isolates recovered from blood samples of patients referred to Ethiopian Public Health Institute: cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Blood stream infections are serious infections that usually induce prolongation of hospital stay, morbidity and mortality in several countries including Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to determine bacterial and fungal profile, their drug resistance patterns, and risk factors associated with blood stream infections. METHODS: A cross sectional study design was conducted from February 23 to June 23, 2020 at Ethiopian public health. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic factors and clinical conditions. Blood specimens were analyzed using standard microbiological techniques. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique and Vitek compact 2. Simple and multiple logistic regressions were used to assess the potential risk factors. RESULTS: A total of 175 pathogens isolated from 346 blood specimens. Of these, 60% Gram-negative bacteria, 30.86% Gram-positive bacteria and 9.14% fungal isolates were identified. Burkholderia cepacia and Coagulase negative staphylococcus were the predominant pathogen among Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria respectively. Among fungus, Candida krusei (56.25%) was the most predominant isolate. The highest proportions of antibacterial resistance were observed among 3rd generation cephalosporin and penicillin. Most fungal isolates expressed resistance to fluconazole. Sex (P = 0.007), age (P < 0.001) and use of invasive medical devices (P = 0.003) were identified as risk factors for bacterial blood stream infections. CONCLUSION: The study showed high prevalence of blood stream infection was due to B. cepacia and non-C. albicans spp. This finding alarming ongoing investigation of blood stream infection is important for recognizing future potential preventive strategies including environmental hygiene and management of comorbid medical diseases to reduce the problem.

Evaluation of antibacterial and acute oral toxicity of Impatiens tinctoria A. Rich root extracts.

The high prevalence of morbidity and mortality from bacterial infections, together with the growing threat of antibacterial resistance, necessitated the development of alternative new drugs from traditional medicine. In Ethiopia, Impatiens tinctoria A. Rich has been traditionally used for the treatment of fungal infections such as ringworms that cause tinea pedis and it have also different medical values. Scientific information on its biological activity against a broad range of bacteria and safety data is scant, compared to its folklore data. In this study, we evaluated antibacterial activities and acute oral toxicity of aqueous, ethanol and ethyl acetate root extracts of Impatiens tinctoria A. Rich. Aqueous, ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts of the plant were evaluated using agar hole diffusion and agar dilution methods. Biological activities of the plant extracts were expressed as a zone of inhibition diameter, minimum inhibitory concentration (mg/ml), and minimum bactericidal concentration (mg/ml). The safety studies were performed by oral acute toxicity study according to the organization of economic cooperation and development test Guidelines 420.Gram-positive bacteria were more susceptible to the extracts compared to gram-negative bacteria, especially against S. aureus and S. epidermidis, which are commonly found in the skin. Ethyl acetate extract was more potent than ethanol and aqueous extracts. The 50% lethal dose (LD50) of tested mice was above 9600 mg/kg. This study provides a scientific basis for the antibacterial activity of the root extracts of I. tinctoria A. Rich, where, the ethyl acetate extract showed the most promising activity. Therefore, the antibacterial potential and practical non-toxicity of the study plant extracts suggested the possibility of using it for the development of antimicrobial drugs by further studying the plant in different directions.

High Prevalence of Multidrug-Resistant and Extended-Spectrum ß-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae: A Cross-Sectional Study at Arsho Advanced Medical Laboratory, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae particularly extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producers have become a major public health threat. Despite efforts to limit their spread, rates of multidrug-resistance members of the Enterobacteriaceae continue to increase throughout the world causing increased morbidity and mortality and raised costs for medical care. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of multidrug resistance and extended-spectrum ß-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae. METHODS: Four hundred forty Enterobacteriaceae isolates from outpatients referred to Arsho Advanced Medical Laboratory were identified and assessed for their antimicrobial resistance pattern by using the automated VITEK 2 compact system. Extended-spectrum ß-lactamase production was determined by the VITEK 2 automated compact system using the extended-spectrum ß-lactamase test panel as per the instruction of the manufacturer. RESULTS: The overall resistance rates of Enterobacteriaceae against cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, and fluoroquinolones were high. Nitrofurantoin with a resistance rate of 14.3% and piperacillin/tazobactam combination with a resistance rate of 17.3% were better active against this group of Gram-negative bacteria. Out of 440 isolates of Enterobacteriaceae, 42.1% were multidrug-resistant of which 34.3% and 8.95% were extensively drug-resistant and pan-drug resistant, respectively. Among 185 multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, 63.9% of the isolates produced extended-spectrum ß-lactamase of which 75.4%, 19.5%, 1.7%, 2.5%, and 0.8% were E. coli, K. pneumoniae, C. freundii, E. cloacae, and P. mirabilis, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The present study demonstrated high prevalence rates of multidrug-resistant and extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae. In order to combat these problems, infection control strategy and proper antibiotic policies should be formulated.

Distribution of Candida albicans and non-albicans Candida species isolated in different clinical samples and their in vitro antifungal suscetibity profile in Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: The spectrum of yeasts and their antifungal susceptibility profile are poorly known and treatment of fungal disease has remained empirical. The aim of this study is to determine the spectrum and antifungal susceptibility profile of yeasts particularly of Candida species. METHODS: A descriptive study on the composition of Candida species and antifungal susceptibility profile were conducted from January 2018 to September 2018. Clinical samples collected from different sites were cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar and incubated for an appropriate time. Identification of yeast isolates and their antifungal susceptibility profile were determined by the VITEK 2 compact system. Descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentage of Candida species were calculated using SPSS version 20. RESULTS: Of 209 yeasts recovered, 104(49.8%), 90 (43.1%), 15(7.2%) were C. albicans, non albicans Candida species, and other yeasts, respectively. Among non albicans Candida species, Candida krusei was the commonest isolate. Of other yeast groups, 66.7% was represented by Cryptococcus laurentii. Regardless of Candida species identified, 85.6, 3.9, and 10.5% of the isolates were susceptible, intermediate, and resistant to fluconazole, respectively. C krusei was 100% resistant to the drug. Voriconazole demonstrated the greatest antifungal activity against Candida isolates in which 99.4% of Candida isolates were susceptible. The susceptibility and the resistance rate of Candida isolate to both caspofungin and micafungin were the same being 96 and 4% respectively. However, micafungin was more potent than caspofungin. The susceptibility, resistant, and intermediate rates of yeasts against flucytosine were, 86.2, 6.6, and 7.2%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The present study demonstrated the distribution of Candida species in different clinical specimens where the isolation rate of non-albicans Candida species was comparable to Candida albicans. The high resistance rate of C. krusei to fluconazole and flucytosine may demonstrate that the treatment of candidiasis empirically is questionable.

High Prevalence of Multi-Drug Resistance and Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase Production in Non-Fermenting Gram-Negative Bacilli in Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Emergence of resistance to multiple antimicrobial agents in Non-Fermenting Gram-Negative Bacilli is a major problem to public health, as it limits drug treatment options against infections. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of multi-drug resistance and extended spectrum beta lactamase production in Non-Fermenting Gram-Negative Bacilli. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Different clinical samples were collected and processed following standard procedures. Each sample was then inoculated onto culture media. Identification, drug susceptibility testing, and extended spectrum beta lactamase production of the isolates were carried out by using the VITEK 2 compact system. RESULTS: Among 996 clinical samples, 135 samples yielded Non-Fermenting Gram-Negative Bacilli of which Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter species were the commonest isolates. The overall drug resistance rates of Non-Fermenting Gram-Negative Bacilli were above 80% against ampicillin (89.6%), cefuroxime axetil (88.9%), nitrofurantoin (85.9%), cefalotin (84.4%), cefoxitin (83.7%), cefazolin (83.0%), and cefuroxime (83.0%). Tobramycin with a resistance rate of 19.3% was the most active antimicrobial agent. Out of 135 isolates, 81.5% were multi-drug resistant of which 13.3% were extensively drug resistant and 10.4% were pandrug resistant. Extended spectrum beta lactamase production was detected in 48.9% of the isolates. CONCLUSIONS: The spectrum of bacterial species isolated was diverse. The isolates demonstrated high level of drug resistance in different classes of antibiotics. The magnitude of multi-drug resistance and the level of extended spectrum beta lactamase production were high. Hence, further studies on multi-drug resistant and extended spectrum beta lactamase producing Non-Fermenting Gram-Negative Bacilli both in the community and in hospital setting are essential.

Multidrug-resistant profile and prevalence of extended spectrum ß-lactamase and carbapenemase production in fermentative Gram-negative bacilli recovered from patients and specimens referred to National Reference Laboratory, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: The emergence of multidrug-resistance (MDR), production of extended-spectrum ß-lactamases, and carbapenemase in members of fermentative gram-negative bacilli are a serious threat to public health. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the burden of multi-drug resistance, the production of extended-spectrum ß-lactamases (ESBLs), and carbapenemase in fermentative Gram-negative bacilli in Ethiopian Public Health Institute. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out from December 2017 to June 2018. Different clinical samples were collected, inoculated, and incubated according to standard protocols related to each sample. Bacterial identification was performed by using the VITEKR 2 compact system using the GNR card. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was carried out by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Production of ESBL and carbapenemase were confirmed by combination disc and modified Hodge Test method respectively. RESULTS: A total of 238 fermentative Gram-negative bacilli were recovered during the study period, among which E.coli were the predominant isolates followed by K. pneumoniae. The highest percentage of antibiotic resistance was noted against ampicillin (100%) followed by trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (81.9%). The isolates showed better sensitivity towards carbapenem drugs. Out of 238 isolates, 94.5% were MDR and of which 8.8% and 0.8% were extensively and pan drug resistant, respectively. Nearly 67% and 2% of isolates were producers of ESBL and carbapenemase, respectively. The isolation rates of MDR, ESBL, and carbapenemase producing stains of the isolates were ≥70% in intensive care unit while the isolation rates in other wards were ≤25%. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study revealed that the burden of MDR and ESBL was high and carbapenemase producing isolates were also identified which is concerning. This situation warrants a consistent surveillance of antimicrobial resistance of fermentative Gram-negative bacilli and implementation of an efficient infection control program.

Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Spectrum of Fungi in Patients with Onychomycosis in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A Prospective Study.

BACKGROUND: Onychomycosis is a common refractory infection deleteriously affecting quality of life via social stigma and upsetting day-to-day activities. OBJECTIVE: To study the prevalence of onychomycosis, spectrum of fungal etiological agents, and associated risk factors. METHODS: A prospective nonrandomized study on the prevalence of onychomycosis was carried out from September 2017 to April 2018 at a dermatology center in Addis Ababa. Nail scrapings were collected from 303 patients clinically identified with nail disorders of fungal origin by dermatologists. Fungal etiological agents were identified microscopically and by culture method following standard procedures. RESULTS: The prevalence of onychomycosis was 60.4%. Fungi neither were detected nor showed visible fungal growth in 39.6% of the cases. Females were more likely to present dystrophic nails than men. Patients in the middle age group were more affected. The isolation rates of dermatophytes, yeasts, and nondermatophyte molds were 44.7%, 33.3%, and 32.3%, respectively. Trichophyton rubrum, Scytalidium dimidiatum, and Candida albicans were the dominant species of dermatophytes, nondermatophyte molds, and yeasts, respectively. There was no statistically significant association between onychomycosis and risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence rate of onychomycosis in the present study was high. The isolation rate of nondermatophyte molds was comparable with that of dermatophytes. Further studies on the prevalence of onychomycosis, fungal etiological agents, and changes in species distribution of the etiological agents of nail infection in Ethiopia are important.

Prevalence of tuberculosis, multidrug resistant tuberculosis and associated risk factors among smear negative presumptive pulmonary tuberculosis patients in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: The diagnoses of active smear negative PTB, remains difficult. As a result, treatment is often carried out empirically relaying on clinical criteria. The distribution and magnitude of smear negative PTB, smear negative MDR-TB and associated factors in the same day diagnosis strategy are not clearly known in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of TB, MDR-TB and associated risk factors among presumptive smear negative pulmonary tuberculosis patients in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. METHODS: Analytic cross sectional study design was used. A total of 418 smear negative presumptive pulmonary TB patients were enrolled from selected health facilities since August 01, 2017 to January 5, 2018. Sputum samples were examined by Ziehl Neelsen microscopy, Xpert MTB/RIF assay and Culture. Drug susceptibility testing was performed by line probe assay and BACTEC MGIT 960 system. These laboratory tests were performed in Ethiopian Public Health Institute, National TB Reference Laboratory. Data was analyzed by SPSS Ver.20. RESULTS: From the total of 418 enrolled patients, 27 (6.5%) were Xpert MTB/ RIF and 26 (6.4%) were culture confirmed smear negative PTB patients. The positivity rate among male and female was 10.2 and 3.5% (p = 0.005) respectively. From 26 culture positive isolates 3 (11.54%) were MDR TB; from MDR-TB confirmed isolates 2/23 (8.7%) were among new and 1/3 (33.3%) was among retreatment smear negative presumptive pulmonary TB patients. All Rifampicin resistant smear negative pulmonary TB isolates by Xpert MTB/ RIF assay were found to be MDR TB and 7/26 (26.9%) isolates were INH mono resistant. History of migration found to be a potential factor for developing smear negative pulmonary TB. CONCLUSION: In this study a significant proportion of smear negative pulmonary TB was diagnosed. Furthermore, a high smear negative multi drug resistant (MDR) TB and other mono drug resistant TB prevalence was confirmed. Due to the limitations of smear microscopy which is used as a primary diagnostic tool, these TB strains are missed to be diagnosed and transmission continues in the community.

Prevalence and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Bacterial Uropathogens Isolated from Pediatric Patients at Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is considered as the most common bacterial infection seen among the pediatric patients. OBJECTIVE: This study was carried out in order to determine the prevalence of urinary tract infection in pediatric patients, identify bacterial uropathogens responsible for the infection, and study the antibiotic sensitivity patterns of bacterial isolates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study designed and conducted from January to April 2014. Clean-voided midstream urine specimens were obtained from 384 pediatric patients less than or equal to 15 years in sterile universal bottles. Urine collected from each patient was inoculated onto CLED and blood agar plates using a calibrated inoculating loop with a capacity of 0.001 ml. Inoculated plates were incubated for 24-48 hours at 37°C at inverted position aerobically. Bacterial isolates were indentified and characterized by Gram stain and by using an array of standard routine biochemical tests. The antimicrobial susceptibility test was carried out by using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Frequency distribution tables were used to describe the findings. Logistical regression was also used to estimate crude odds ratio (COR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) of positive responses to the different variables, and P values less than 0.05 were taken as statistically significant. RESULT: In this study, a total of 384 patients (199 males and 185 females) aged less than or equal to 15 years from whom urine samples were collected were enrolled. Of these patients, 61 (15.9%) had significant bacteriuria. Of the 185 females, 36 (19.5%) came up with positive cultures, while 25 (12.6%) of the 199 males had significant bacteriuria, and the largest number of study subjects were below the age of 3 years, and the largest positive culture was obtained from this age group, accounting for 35 (57.4%.) out of 61 positive cultures. Bacterial species belonging to six genera were isolated and identified from 61 positive cultures, and the genera were Escherichia, Klebsiella, Staphylococcus, Proteus, Acinetobacter, and Enterococcus. E. coli was isolated in 28 cases (49.5 %), followed by Klebsiella spp. in 17 cases (27.9%), Staphylococcus spp. in 5 patients (8.2%.) (S. aureus in one and coagulase-negative staphylococci in 4 cases), Enterococcus in 7 cases (11.5%), Proteus spp. in 3 cases (4.9%), and Acinetobacter in one case (1.6%). Of the bacterial isolates, E. coli was found out to be the most common pathogen followed by Klebsiella spp. Furthermore, E. coli and Klebsiella spp. were the most common pathogens in female patients accounting for 71.4% and 64.7%, respectively. Regarding susceptibility tests, E. coli and Klebsiella spp. were not 100% susceptible to any of the 11 antibiotics tested. Acinetobacter spp. had 100% resistance to three antibiotics: gentamicin (GN), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (SXM), and augmentin (AMP). But they were 100% susceptible to ciprofloxacin (CIP), cefuroxime (CXM), norfloxacin (NOR), and ceftazidime (CAZ). On the contrary, Proteus spp. was 100% sensitive to all drugs except to nitrofurantoin. Species of Enterococcus had resistance of 71.4% to chloramphenicol (C) and 85.7% to both SXM and erythromycin. S. aureus was 100% susceptible to almost all drugs, while coagulase-negative staphylococci were not as susceptible as S. aureus. Multidrug resistance to two or more drugs was observed in 73.7% of the bacterial isolates. CONCLUSION: This study determined the prevalence of urinary tract infection in pediatric patients and highlighted the major bacterial uropathogens involved in UTI for the first time in the country. Furthermore, bacterial pathogen species and their frequency was consistent with the usually reported pattern, with E. coli being the most common organism isolated in cases of urinary tract infections followed by Klebsiella spp. Most of the bacterial isolates were multidrug resistant, and it is therefore suggested that appropriate antimicrobials should be administered to reduce the risk of multidrug resistant organisms developing and avert ineffectiveness of antibiotics. This condition indicates that antibiotic selection should be based on knowledge of the local prevalence of bacterial organisms and antibiotic sensitivities rather than empirical treatment. The present study indicated that ciprofloxacin (CIP), ceftazidime (CAZ), cefotaxime (CTX), cefuroxime (CXM), clindamycin (DA), and ceftriaxone (CRO) were the best antibiotics for the treatment of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial uropathogens, respectively, in the study area relatively.