Phenotypic and Molecular Evaluation of Klebsiella pneumoniae in Traumatic Wounds: Prevalence, Antibiotic Resistance, and Risk Factors

Abstract

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a significant pathogen responsible for wound infections, particularly in traumatic injuries like crushing and laceration wounds. To determine the prevalence, antibiotic resistance patterns, and associated risk factors of K. pneumoniae infection in crushing and laceration wounds. A total of 166 samples; (95) samples from crush wounds and (71) samples from lacerations. Microbial isolation and antibiotic susceptibility testing, along with genetic analyses for (aph (3')-Ia and aac(3)-II) genes were performed to K. pneumoniae and its resistance patterns. Demographics, clinical details, and risk factors were documented for all patients. A total of 166 bacterial isolates were collected from patients; forty-nine isolates were K. pneumoniae (29.5%). The prevalence of crush wound samples was higher (37%) than lacerations (20%). Males represent (81.6%), with an average age of 41 years. Diabetic patients were (24.5%), while patients who were taking antibiotics before infection were (44.9%). ESBL genes and their resistance (aph (3')-Ia and aac (3)-II) were commonly found, which shows the presence of multiple drug resistance. The study reveals the widespread prevalence of K. pneumoniae and significant antibiotic resistance in crush and laceration wounds, particularly those associated with ESBL production. These findings highlight the need for effective infection control strategies, tailored treatments to limit spread, and close monitoring of antibiotic resistance patterns.