Emerging Challenges in Bloodstream Infections: Insights from Coagulase Typing, Toxin Genes, and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns.

BACKGROUND

The incidence of complications and mortality associated with () bloodstream infections has been increasing significantly, particularly in developing countries where control strategies against this virulent pathogen and its resistance to antibacterial agents are insufficient. The aim of this study was to investigate coagulase typing, the prevalence of toxin genes, and the antibiotic resistance profile of isolated from bloodstream infections.

METHODS

Antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates was determined by the disk diffusion method. The prevalence of toxin genes was determined using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Genetic variability of isolates was determined using multiplex PCR based on coagulase gene polymorphism.

RESULTS

Out of 120 strains, 55 (46%) were methicillin-resistant (MRSA) and 65 (54%) were methicillin-sensitive (MSSA). All isolates were susceptible to linezolid and teicoplanin but showed varying levels of resistance to other antibiotics. The highest resistance was observed for ampicillin (92.5%), gentamicin (69.2%), and amikacin (68.3%). Multidrug resistance was observed in all isolates. PCR analysis revealed a higher prevalence of toxin genes in MRSA (: 38%, : 29.1%, : 10%, and : 4.1%) than that in MSSA. According to the typing, the most prevalent types were III (29.2%), II (26.7%), and VI (10%).

CONCLUSION

The presence of genetic variability and widespread multidrug resistance in our hospitals emphasizes the circulation of various types. Therefore, it is crucial to implement antimicrobial stewardship and infection control measures to prevent and control the spread of these strains.