Abstract
Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common infectious diseases associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Antibiotic resistance in uropathogens presents a growing challenge to effective UTI management, necessitating an understanding of epidemiological trends and treatment practices. This study investigates the epidemiology of UTIs and antibiotic resistance patterns within our local health-care setting.

Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze patient demographics, comorbidities, therapeutic approaches, antibiotic prescription patterns, culture and sensitivity testing results, and outcomes in UTI management.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted using medical records of UTI patients treated at our institution. Data were extracted and analyzed for patient characteristics and antibiotic resistance patterns. Statistical tests, including the Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests, were employed to identify associations between patient characteristics and antibiotic resistance patterns.

Results: Females comprised the majority (64.6%) of UTI cases, with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (68.66%) and hypertension (53.3%) being the most prevalent comorbidities. Empirical therapy was predominant (98.6%), with cephalosporins as the most commonly prescribed antibiotics. Escherichia coli was the predominant organism isolated (50%) in culture, with varying resistance patterns. Ciprofloxacin exhibited the highest resistance (59.5%), while gentamycin showed the highest sensitivity (68.7%). Prescription alterations post-culture revealed a shift toward nitrofurantoin as the most commonly prescribed antibiotic.

Conclusion: This study provides insights into UTI epidemiology and antibiotic resistance patterns in our local health-care setting. The observed gender disparity and prevalence of comorbidities highlight the complexity of UTIs and their association with underlying health conditions. Empirical therapy remains the cornerstone of UTI management, emphasizing the need for judicious antibiotic prescribing practices. Tailored antimicrobial stewardship strategies are essential to address antibiotic resistance emergence and optimize patient outcomes in UTI management.

Key words: Urinary Tract Infections; Empirical Therapy; Drug Resistance; Culture and Sensitivity Test