Epidemiology, Infectious Agents and Treatment Profiles of Urinary Tract Infections in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Retrospective Analysis

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common complications after kidney transplantation, significantly affecting patient and graft outcomes. This study presents a thorough examination of the epidemiological features, causative pathogens, and antibiotic treatment patterns among kidney transplant recipients. A retrospective review was conducted involving 550 kidney transplant patients at a single transplant center, between January 2006 and May 2019. Patient demographics, clinical data, microbiological findings, and antibiotic susceptibility results were systematically analyzed. Among 550 transplant patients, at least one episode of UTI was observed in 200. Out of 633 UTI episodes identified, Escherichia coli was the most common causative microorganism, representing 64.9%. Among these, ESBL (Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase) positivity was found in 51.6%. UTIs continue to be a common and challenging complication among kidney transplant recipients. Implementing specific preventive strategies and maintaining careful antibiotic policies are essential to minimize risks and enhance patient outcomes. The notably higher rate of ESBL positivity in UTI cases, which exceeds typical levels, aligns with the rising trend of antibiotic resistance observed both locally and globally in recent years. This finding serves as a crucial warning, prompting a review of antibiotic selection practices.