Work

Phenotypic assessment of resistant bacteria isolated from skin and soft tissue infections in Ibb City, Yemen

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background Skin and soft tissue infections are common clinical conditions with significant morbidity worldwide. Data on antimicrobial resistance in Skin and soft tissue infections from Ibb governorate, Yemen are limited. This study aimed to investigate the spectrum of bacterial pathogens associated with SSTIs in hospitals in Ibb City and to characterize their antibiotic resistance profiles, providing baseline information to guide local antimicrobial stewardship strategies. Methods A total of 103 wound swab samples from inpatients and outpatients were collected from five hospitals in Ibb City between January and April 2022. Bacteria were cultured and identified using standardized microbiological methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method according to CLSI guidelines. Patient demographics, risk factors (diabetes, obesity, malnutrition), and prior antibiotic use were recorded from structured questionnaires and medical records. Risk factors were based on prior clinical diagnoses by attending physicians; no additional laboratory or standardized assessments were performed. Results Bacterial growth was detected in 96 samples (93.2%). Gram-positive bacteria comprised 69 (69.8%) of isolates, with Staphylococcus aureus representing 53 (53.5%). Gram-negative bacteria accounted for 29 (29.1%) of isolates. Gram-positive isolates showed high resistance to Oxacillin 51 (96.2%), Ceftriaxone, and Penicillin 43 (>80%) and moderate resistance to Vancomycin 17 (32%). Gram-negative isolates were fully resistant to Amoxicillin and Ceftriaxone and showed variable resistance to Ciprofloxacin and Gentamicin. Diabetes and malnutrition were the most common patient risk factors, with frequent prior antibiotic exposure. Conclusions High levels of antimicrobial resistance among Skin and soft tissue infections bacterial pathogens in Ibb City limit empirical treatment options. While the sample size is small and results may not be generalized nationally, these findings provide important local baseline data. Continuous surveillance and targeted antimicrobial stewardship programs are recommended. Clinical trial number Not applicable.

Source: Annals of Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobials

DOI: 10.1186/s12941-026-00891-2