Etiologic Profile and Sensitivity Pattern of Germs Responsible for Urinary Tract Infection Among Under-five Children in Douala, Cameroon: A Hospital-Based Study

Abstract

Background : Urinary tract infection (UTI) is considered as one of the most common diseases encountered in medical practice. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility of bacteria responsible for UTI among under five-year-old children. Methods : A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Bonassama District Hospital of Douala, Cameroon. Sociodemographic and clinical information was documented, followed by collecting urine samples for bacteriological examination and antibiotic sensitivity test. Results : The prevalence of UTI was 32.25% (129/400) and girls were more infected than boys (57.4% vs. 42.6, P=0.007). In addition, Escherichia coli (41.08%) and Enterobacter cloacae (18.6%) were the main bacteria which were isolated in this study and the resistance rates of E. coli isolates were higher for penicillin and second- and first-generation cephalosporins. This pattern was similar for E. cloacae and Klebsiella pneumoniae as well. Conclusions : Overall, UTI is still a major public health problem in Cameroon.