Comparative Analysis of Resistance Profile of Pseudomonas aeruginosa against Clinically Relevant Antibiotics

Abstract

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an aerobic, non spore forming Gram negative straight or slightly curved rod about 1-3 μm long and 0.5-1.0 μm wide and has polar flagella. It is also a non fomenter of lactose, glucose and sucrose [3]. Carle Gessard first discovered P.aeruginosa in 1882[2]. The genome of this microbe is among the largest in the bacterial kingdom allowing for great genetic capacity and high 12 adaptability to environmental changes. In fact Pseudomonas aeruginosa has 55567 genes in 6.26 Mbp of DNA [4]. Pseudomonas aeruginosa naturally occurs in soil and water reservoirs. It is frequently found in aerators and taps of sink, in respiratory therapy equipments and shower heads. It also contaminates bronchoscopes and lead to outbreak of infection. Finally, P.aeruginosa may be found on the surface of many types of raw fruits and vegetables [2]. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic nosocomial pathogen responsible for a wide range of infections that may present high rates of antimicrobial resistance [5, 6, 7 ]. It is the fourth most common isolated nosocomial pathogen accounting for approximately 10% of all hospital acquired infections. Case mortality rate for patients infected with P.aeruginosa approaches 50%. Severe immunodeficiency and medical devices predispose the patients to P.aeruginosa infections [6]. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is becoming more resistant to conventional drug therapy due to indiscriminate use of antibiotics. There is a need to frame rational drug therapy to prevent the misuse of antibiotics. Prior AST (antibiotic susceptibility test) and MIC determination is required to reduce the incidences of morbidity and mortality due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.