ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF BACTERIA STRAINS IN CATHETER-RELATED BLOODSTREAM INFECTION AMONG THE HEMODIALYSIS EGYPTIAN PATIENTS

Bacterial infections are a significant threat to individuals with kidney diseases, especially those undergoing hemodialysis. Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is a common and serious concern in these patients. Inserted catheters quickly become coated with plasma proteins, providing an opportunity for bacteria to migrate from the skin through the catheter track or from the catheter hubs into this protein sheath. This study aimed to identify and characterize causative organisms in CRBSI from hemodialysis Egyptian patients, utilizing 16S rRNA sequencing. 4 different bacterial strains were successfully identified includingStaphylococcus sp., Bacillus sp., Enterococcus sp., and Delftia sp. using microbial identification in addition to 16S rRNA sequencing. Whole genome sequencing of Delftiatsuruhatensis and Enterococcus faecalis was also performed to gain deeper insights into the genetic characteristics of these bacterial isolates. The study revealed genes associated with antimicrobial resistance in these two bacterial strains. Precise bacterial identification is crucial for guiding patient care and selecting appropriate antibiotic treatments, providing reassurance to clinicians, and aiding in treatment adjustment based on antibiotic sensitivity.Importantly, it should be noted that few studies covered this in Egypt, emphasizing the significance of this study in addressing a critical healthcare concern in the region.