A STUDY ON BACTERIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF SEPTICEMIA IN PATIENTS ATTENDING A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Abstract

Background: Septicemia is a life-threatening condition characterized by the presence of pathogenic organisms in the bloodstream, often leading to severe systemic complications, prolonged hospitalization, and increased healthcare costs. Timely identification of causative organisms and their antibiotic susceptibility is critical for effective treatment. Aim: To isolate and identify bacterial pathogens causing septicemia and to determine their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns in patients attending a tertiary care hospital. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted over a 12-month period (June 2023–June 2024). Blood samples from 596 patients clinically suspected of septicemia were cultured using Brain Heart Infusion broth, followed by subculturing on appropriate media. Bacterial isolates were identified using standard biochemical tests and antibiotic susceptibility was determined by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, as per CLSI guidelines. Results: Of 596 samples, 122 (20.4%) were blood culture positive. The highest positivity was seen in the 1–5 years age group (45%), with a male predominance (M:F ratio = 1.6:1). Gram-negative organisms accounted for 58.2% of isolates, with Escherichia coli (28.7%) being the most common, followed by Acinetobacter spp. (15.6%) .Gram-positive organisms constituted 39.3%, predominantly Staphylococcus aureus (21.3%)—including MSSA (15.5%) and MRSA (5.8%).Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed high resistance to beta-lactams among Enterobacteriaceae and moderate to high sensitivity to tetracycline, meropenem, and amikacin. Among Gram-positive isolates, linezolid, vancomycin, and clindamycin were highly effective. Conclusion: Gram-negative bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli, are the leading cause of septicemia in this region. The emergence of multidrug resistance underscores the importance of regular surveillance, rational antibiotic use, and formulation of effective antimicrobial stewardship programs to combat rising resistance and improve clinical outcomes.