Prevalence of bacterial agents causing urinary tract infections in children below 5 years of age and their antibiotic sensitivity

Abstract

Abstract: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common childhood problem, if not diagnosed and treated promptly may lead to serious problems like renal scarring and renal failure. This study was conducted to assess the most common bacterial agents responsible for UTI and the most effective antibiotics. Four hundred eighty five (485) cases included in this study selected according to certain criteria. One hundred thirty patients (26.8%) had positive cultures for UTI. Most common bacterial agent was E. coli responsible for (30.7%) of cases. Amikacin and Gentamycin were found to be the most commonly effective antimicrobial agents against these bacteria. The study showed a significant sex preponderance in infantile age group (male: female 1.8:1) while UTI predominated in females beyond infancy (3.2-3.5:1). The study showed clearly the importance of testing antibiotics sensitivity of these bacteria for successful management of UTI.