Prevalence of Bacterial Pathogens and Antimicrobial Resistance in Pediatric Otitis in Zintan, Libya.

الملخص

Bacterial infections causing otitis media are common in children and impact their ability to communicate and learn. These infections can lead to health and psychological complications, underscoring the need for medical intervention. The significance of this study lies in its investigation of bacterial infections in children with ear infections at healthcare centers in Zintan city,  from May to August 2023. A total of 100 samples were collected from one week to five years, including 54 females and 46 males. Ear swabs were taken using sterile cotton swabs, followed by bacterial culture on various media. The identification of bacterial species was conducted through Gram staining and biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed using the modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. The study identified 85 bacterial isolates, predominantly from the genera Staphylococcus, Klebsiella, and Escherichia. Gram-positive bacteria comprised 68.23%, with Staphylococcus aureus being the most common at 35.26%. Formula feeding was associated with a higher prevalence of bacterial infections (42.55%) compared to breastfeeding (38.85%). Additionally, natural delivery showed a greater prevalence of bacteria (60%) than cesarean delivery (40%). Female had a higher infection rate (56.47%) compared to males (43.52%). Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed that Meropenem was highly effective (100% susceptibility), while Penicillin and Amoxicillin showed significant resistance (80%+). The findings of this study highlight the critical prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in pediatric ear infections, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and tailored treatment strategies to combat resistance effectively. The study underlines the importance of antibiotic stewardship in clinical settings to enhance treatment outcomes.