Proteus mirabilis in ICU Patients: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Future Expectations of Bloodstream Infections

Abstract

Background Proteus mirabilis is an emerging but under-recognized cause of bloodstream infections (BSIs) in intensive care unit (ICU) settings, where invasive procedures and immunocompromised states increase vulnerability. Despite its clinical importance, the epidemiology and risk factors associated with P. mirabilis BSIs remain poorly understood, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Gap Most existing studies generalize Gram-negative pathogens without isolating the specific impact of P. mirabilis in ICU populations. There is a lack of data on species, specific risk factors, infection sources, and outcome predictors. Methodology A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 30 adult ICU patients admitted between January and December 2024. Clinical, procedural, and microbiological data were extracted from electronic medical records. Statistical analysis and regression modeling (Linear, Ridge, and Lasso) were applied using SPSS and Python to identify significant predictors of ICU stay and infection risk. Findings and conclusion Proteus mirabilis was detected in 53.3% of patients, and 56.7% of infections are hospital-acquired. Central line use (60%), ventilator support (60%), and urinary catheterization (63.3%) were more frequent among infected individuals. Regression models identified central line placement (β=3.24), hospital-acquired infection (β=2.46), and diabetes (β=1.05) as major predictors of prolonged ICU stay. Lasso regression highlighted the device and related variables as the most robust predictors.