ANALYSIS OF MICROBIAL CLINICAL ISOLATES AND ANTIBIOTIC SUSCEPTIBILITY PATTERNS IN DIABETIC PATIENTS.

Nkosinathi Khwela; Nokukhanya  Thembane; Nhlanhla Wiseman Nsele

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v4i6.475

Authors

Nkosinathi Khwela Mangosuthu University of Technology
Nokukhanya Thembane Mangosuthu University of Technology
Dr. Nhlanhla Wiseman Nsele Mangosuthu University of Technology

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v4i6.475

Keywords:

Diabetes Mellitus, Antimicrobial susceptibility testing, Multidrug resistance, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus, South Africa

Abstract

Introduction:

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels resulting from insulin deficiency or impaired insulin action. Diabetic patients are more susceptible to microbial infections due to compromised immunity and impaired wound healing. Understanding the types and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of microbial clinical isolates in diabetic patients is crucial for effective management and prevention of complications. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding the prevalence of specific pathogens and their antibiotic susceptibility patterns in diabetic patients, particularly in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. This study aimed to identify the types of microbial clinical isolates commonly found in diabetic patients and assess their antibiotic susceptibility patterns.

Methodology:

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital in KwaZulu Natal, involving 100 diabetic patients. Microbiological analysis and antibiotic susceptibility testing were performed using standard methods. The types and frequencies of microbial isolates were determined, and their antibiotic susceptibility patterns were evaluated.

Results:

Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella species, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were among the commonly identified microbial isolates. The antibiotic susceptibility patterns varied among the isolates, highlighting the importance of targeted treatment selection.

Conclusion:

This study contributes to bridging the knowledge gap and provides valuable insights for the management of infections in diabetic patients. The findings can guide the selection of appropriate antibiotics, inform infection prevention strategies, and ultimately improve patient outcomes in this vulnerable population.

Author Biographies

Nkosinathi Khwela, Mangosuthu University of Technology

is a Bachelor of Health Science graduate in Medical Laboratory Science from Mangosuthu University of Technology, South Africa. His research interests primarily focus on infectious diseases. Nkosinathi is a certified scientist in Virology with the Health Professional Council of South Africa.

Nokukhanya Thembane, Mangosuthu University of Technology

Nokukhanya Thembane, a Senior Lecturer at Mangosuthu University of Technology, is a board-certified Medical Laboratory Scientist specializing in Clinical Pathology (Microbiology, Haematology, and Clinical Chemistry). She is dedicated to advancing the field of Medical Laboratory Science and Medical Technology.

Dr. Nhlanhla Wiseman Nsele , Mangosuthu University of Technology

is an experienced academic and Medical Technologist with expertise in Medical Microbiology. He currently serves as the Head of Department at Mangosuthu University of Technology. In his role, he supervises undergraduate and post-graduate students specializing in Medical Technology and Medical Laboratory Science. Dr. Nsele's research primarily revolves around infectious diseases.