Molecular Characterisation of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Reveals Emergence of Drug Resistant O15, O22, and O25 Serogroups

Abstract Background Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) are common pathogens causing urinary tract infections (UTIs). We aimed to investigate the relationship among clinical manifestation, serogroups, phylogenetic groups, and antimicrobial resistance among UPEC. Methods One-hundred Escherichia coli isolates recovered from urine and ureteral scrapings were used for the study. The prevalence of antimicrobial resistance was determined by using EUCAST recommendations. E. coli serogroups associated with UTI, as well as phylogenetic diversity was analysed using multiplex PCR reactions. Results Eighty-seven strains (87%) were isolated from females, while 13 (13%) from males. A high frequency of resistance to cephalosporins (43%) and fluoroquinolones (31%) was observed. Among UTI-associated serogroups, O15 (32.8%), O22 (23.4%), and O25 (15.6%) were dominant and demonstrated elevated resistance rates. The E. coli phylogenetic group B2 was most common. These observations extended to pregnant patients with asymptomatic bacteriuria. Conclusions Due to high rates of resistance, strategies using empirical therapy of second-generation cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones for treatment of UPEC infections should be reconsidered.