Microbiological Profile and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns of Diabetic Foot Infections in Baghdad, Iraq

Bulletin of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Assiut · Published 2026-07-28 · DOI 10.21608/bfsa.2026.487361.3114

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Authors (3)

Sara Kadhum Jabal, Raghad Hassan Hussein, Ahmed S Mohammed

Abstract

Background and Aims: Diabetic foot ulceration (DFU) is a serious complication of diabetes, often leading to infection, amputation, and increased morbidity and mortality. Early identification of causative pathogens and their resistance patterns is essential for effective management. This study aimed to determine the bacterial profile and antibiotic susceptibility patterns among DFU patients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 249 DFU patients from November 2025 to February 2026. Samples were collected aseptically and processed according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Results: A total of 258 bacterial isolates were recovered. Most patients were males aged 50–59 years. Gram-negative bacilli predominated (73.1%), while Gram-positive bacteria accounted for 26.9%. The most common isolates were Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. Monomicrobial infections were observed in 91.2% of cases. S. aureus was predominant in Wagner grade 2, whereas P. aeruginosa was more common in grade 4 ulcers. High resistance rates were noted for Cefotaxime, Oxacillin, Methicillin, and Vancomycin. Multidrug resistance was detected in 67.4% of isolates, and extensive drug resistance in 11.6%. Conclusion: The predominance of Gram-negative organisms and high antimicrobial resistance emphasizes the need for regular surveillance and targeted antibiotic therapy to improve clinical outcomes in DFU patients.

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Publication details

Year
2026

Citation

Jabal, S., Hussein, R., Mohammed, A. (2026). Microbiological Profile and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns of Diabetic Foot Infections in Baghdad, Iraq. Bulletin of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Assiut. https://doi.org/10.21608/bfsa.2026.487361.3114

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