Comprehensive Analysis of Klebsiella pneumoniae Culture Identification and Antibiogram: Implications for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns from Sputum Samples in Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Klebsiella pneumoniae, a Gram-negative pathogen, poses a significant threat as a cause of community- and hospital-acquired infections worldwide. The emergence of multidrug-resistant strains, particularly in nosocomial settings, has further complicated the management of these infections. This study aimed to investigate the culture identification and antibiogram of K. pneumoniae isolated from sputum samples collected in various districts in Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A total of 16 sputum samples were collected from patients at the Mardan Medical Complex. Standard microbiological techniques were employed to identify K. pneumoniae, and the antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method, following CLSI guidelines. Among the confirmed K. pneumoniae isolates, approximately 50% were found to be multidrug-resistant. The results indicated resistance to several antibiotics, including vancomycin (30 g), amikacin (30 g), chloramphenicol (30 g), amoxicillin (30 g), and ticarcillin (75 g), while being susceptible to meropenem (10 g), piperacillin (100 g), and tazobactam (110 g). A bioinformatics analysis was also conducted to gain deeper insights into the resistance patterns and potential clustering of isolates. This comprehensive study provides valuable information on the epidemiological trends and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of K. pneumoniae in the region. The findings of this study highlight the urgent need for antimicrobial stewardship programs to combat the rising challenge of antibiotic resistance. Understanding the resistance landscape of K. pneumoniae can guide healthcare professionals in selecting appropriate antibiotics and improving patient outcomes. These data can contribute to the formulation of local antibiotic policies and assist clinicians in making rational choices for antibiotic therapy.