Study of Bacterial Spectrum in Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic foot ulcerations, infections and their sequelae are one of the leading causes of mortality

and morbidity, especially in the developing countries. It is essential to assess the magnitude of bacterial

infection in the lesions to avoid further complications and save the diabetic foot. Aims and Objectives:

This study was carried out to determine the bacterial profiles of infected ulcers and the antibiotic resistance

pattern of the isolates. Methods and Material: Eighty six diabetic foot patients underwent detailed history,

clinical examination, and laboratory investigations including parameters of systemic infections. Microbial

culture and sensitivity were performed at the time of presentation. Results: Among 86 cases, 37.2% had

mono-microbial infection, 54.6% had poly-microbial infections, and 8.1% had sterile culture. Gram negative

aerobes were the most frequently isolated bacteria constituting 84 isolates (64.1%), followed by gram

positive aerobes 45 isolates (34.8%).The most frequently isolated aerobic organisms were Pseudomonas

aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Antimicrobial sensitivity pattern of the isolates were done in which

Imepenem was found to be effective against Gram Negative Infections. Conclusion: There is a growing

trend of isolating gram negative bacteria in these naïve lesions of the diabetic foot. The need for adequate

gram negative antibacterial coverage at the commencement of diabetic foot therapy is essential to prevent

and treat limb/life threatening infections.