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Prevalence of Urinary Tract Infection and Urosepsis Following Transrectal Ultrasound-Guided Prostate Biopsy: Spectrum of Pathogens and Patterns of Antibiotic Resistance

M. Zafar, Mushtaq Hussain, Asad Shahzad Hasan

Cureus, 2025

149 participants

Abstract

Introduction Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy (TRUS-Bx) remains the global standard for diagnosing prostate cancer. Despite being a relatively safe procedure, it carries a risk of post-biopsy complications, most notably urinary tract infections (UTIs) and urosepsis. Increasing rates of antibiotic resistance, especially to fluoroquinolones, have raised concerns about the safety of TRUS-Bx in many regions. Data from Pakistan remain limited, prompting this study to investigate infectious complications and resistance profiles in a local tertiary care setting. Objectives This study aimed to determine the prevalence of UTIs and urosepsis following TRUS-Bx and to assess the spectrum of pathogens and antibiotic resistance patterns among affected patients. Methods This prospective descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Urology, Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT), Karachi, from November 3, 2021, to May 2, 2022. A total of 149 male patients aged 45-80 years with lower urinary tract symptoms, elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA > 4 ng/mL), or palpable nodules on digital rectal examination were enrolled. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, catheterization, bladder stones, pre-biopsy UTI, or positive urine culture were excluded. Pre-biopsy rectal swabs were obtained to guide targeted antimicrobial prophylaxis. Follow-up was performed on the seventh post-procedure day with complete blood count, urine culture, and…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 149 participants or records.

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