Meena Dias

Abstract

Introduction: As a consequence of overuse and misuse of antibiotics along with the intrinsic and acquired resistance of bacteria has given rise to multi drug resistant strains. This problem can be overcome by using naturally occurring products which have antibacterial effects. The aim of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of honey against bacteria isolated from wound infections and to compare the antimicrobial efficacy of different varieties of honey. Materials and Methods: Prospective observational study was conducted for a period of two months. A total number of 49 bacterial isolates from clinically infected wounds were tested against the antimicrobial activity of honey on 43 bacteria isolated from wound infections. Four varieties of honey were used to test the bacteria.our kinds of honey samples. Results: Wild variety (Apisdorsata) and Wild variety (Apisflorea) had good antibacterial activity against both gram positive and gram negative bacteria compared to Culture variety (Apiscerana) and Commercial honey (Dabur) which showed poor activity. Conclusion: Different honeys showed diverse susceptibility patterns against the tested multi drug resistant bacteria.   Keywords: Bacteria, Honey, Antibacterial action

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Abstract

Introduction: Candida is an important cause of blood stream infections (BSI). It ranks fourth in the United States and seventh in Europe. It is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. There is an epidemiological shift from a predominance of Candida albicans to non albicans Candida species in recent decades. Speciation of Candida can help in better approach towards outcome of the patients and to know the intrinsic resistance of various Candida species to antifungal agents. Objectives: To determine the epidemiological profile of Candida infection in septicemic patients and to identify the Candida species isolated. Materials and Methods: A hospital based descriptive study was conducted over a period of 2 years in a tertiary care centre. Candida was isolated in blood culture from 54 patients. Candida isolates were identified to the species level, using both conventional and automated techniques. Results: The most common Candida species isolated were C.parapsilosis complex, C.tropicalis, C.albicans, C.krusei, C.glabrata, C.haemulonii, C.firmetaria and C.guillermondii var membranifaciens. Significant risk factors for candidemia includes HIV/AIDS, diabetes, antibiotic therapy, chemotherapy, presence of intravascular catheters, malignancy, surgery, parenteral nutrition. 51.85% of the patients received antifungal therapy with Fluconazole (71.43%) being the most common treatment option which is followed by Voriconazole (10.71%) and Amphotericin B (7.14%). Conclusion: Candidemia is a significant cause of mortality with C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis being the predominant pathogens. This study shows a significant epidemiological shift to higher isolation of non albicans Candida species. Keywords: Candida species, Epidemiological profile, Septicemic, Risk factors.

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Abstract

Chlamydia trachomatis infection is the most common sexually transmitted bacterial infection worldwide, affecting women more than men. Majority being asymptomatic, this infection goes unnoticed and will have a major impact on the reproductive health of women resulting in morbidity. It also increases the risk of HIV. Objective:To detect the Chlamydial infection in symptomatic women of reproductive age group and to identify the possible risk factors. Materials and Methods: An endocervical swabs were collected from 100 symptomatic patients of reproductive age group and subjected to direct fluorescent antibody test (DFA). Results: The C.trachomatis infection was 20%, with a higher positivity in the age group of 26- 30 years. The most presenting complaint was vaginal discharge. A significant past history of PID, coppet T insertion, IUD/still birth was noted. A 20% coinfection with candiadiasis was also observed. Conclusion: As the occurence of Chlamydia trachomatis was substantially high in our study, effective strategies to implement screening programmes should be initiated as a routine diagnostic test for all women of reproductive age group, thereby preventing severe sequelae by providing timely management. Keywords: Chlamydia trachomatis, Percentage, occurrence, Direct fluorescent antibody test, Risk factors

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