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Antimicrobial resistance among pregnant women with urinary tract infections is on rise: Findings from meta-analysis of observational studies

H. A. Al Kadri, A. El-Metwally, Atika A. Al Sudairy, Raed A. Al-Dahash, Badr F. Al Khateeb, S. A. Al Johani

Journal of Infection and Public Health, 2024

14 citations

Abstract

Pregnant women have a higher risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) compared to non-pregnant women, making antibiotics necessary for treatment. However, prescribing antibiotics without culture and sensitivity tests may contribute to antimicrobial resistance. A meta-analysis using R was conducted to determine the prevalence of antibiotic resistance patterns in UTIs among pregnant women. We identified observational studies published in the last 10 years and used a random effects model to calculate the pooled prevalence. The prevalence of Gram-negative organisms causing UTIs in pregnant women was 67 %, while Gram-positive organisms were 22 %. The burden of Gram-positive organisms exhibiting antimicrobial resistance was very high at 95 %, primarily to ampicillin. The most common Gram-negative organisms exhibiting antimicrobial resistance were E. coli, Klebsiella, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while the most common Gram-positive organisms resistant to antibiotics were Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus. Sensitivity and culture testing are recommended for effective treatment in pregnant women with UTIs.

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Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.

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