Asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnancy

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Asymptomatic Bacteriuria is a common problem in pregnancy and is associated with risk of preterm birth and pyelonephritis if untreated. The diagnosis is based on urine culture. The incidence of antibiotic resistance has been steadily increasing over the past few years resulting in limitation of therapeutic options. Aims & Objectives: This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnant women and also to isolate, identify and establish antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of the pathogens responsible for Asymptomatic Bacteriuria. Methods & Materials: The study includes 1000 pregnant women with asymptomatic bacteriuria. Isolates were identified by conventional methods and there antibiotic susceptibility pattern was established. Results: A total of 1000 (10%) were positive for significant bacteriuria. Escherichia coli was the most predominant organism followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae. Pipercillin-Tazobactum, amikacin and nitrofurantion were found to be the most effective antibiotics against the urinary isolates. Conclusion: Asymptomatic bacteriuria is not uncommon among antenatal patients in the population studied. Routine urine cultural test should be carried out on all antenatal patients in order to identify any unsuspecting infection. This measure will go a long way in reducing maternal and obstetric complications associated with pregnancy.