[The Epidemiological Profile of the Isolation of 'Problem' Microorganisms].

INTRODUCTION

Infections are a major problem and the presence of drug-resistant microorganisms has significant clinical and economic impact. The present study aims to evaluate the epidemiological profile of "problem" microorganisms isolated in a hospital in the north of Portugal.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

All isolated microorganisms were analyzed, between January 2014 and June 2015. Data obtained was then processed using statistical software.

RESULTS

We analyzed 8146 microbiological isolations and found a prevalence of 23% of 'problem' microorganisms (in descending order of frequency: Enterococcus, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus aureus e Streptococcus pneumonia), 57.55% of which isolated in male patients. The most frequent mechanism of drug resistance for the overall sample was the production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase, and resistance to oxacillin for 'problem' microorganisms.

DISCUSSION: In this sample, we observed a much higher prevalence of 'problem' microorganisms than that reported in other countries, which shows the need of improvement of surveillance mechanisms and treatment of these cases. Microorganisms that showed higher resistance were Staphylococcus aureus (resistant to oxacillin) and Enterococcus (resistant to vancomycin). Those were isolated in patients with a higher mean age compared to non-resistant microorganisms. Most of these microorganisms were isolated in hospitalized patients or intermediate and intensive care units, what relates them with healthcare associated infections.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of infection by 'problem' microorganisms during the studied period was 23%. The detection and control of the spread of these microorganisms are paramount due to its impact on health costs, morbidity and survival of patients.