Bacterial Pattern in Acute Appendicitis

Abstract

Background: Bacteria have been implicated in the aetiopathogenesis of acute appendicitis. Few reports exist on bacteriology of the disease in Africa. The knowledge of bacteria and antibiotic sensitivity pattern will assist in formulating treatment protocol for acute appendicitis in a resource-poor environment. Aim: This study sought to determine the bacterial and antibiotic sensitivity pattern in acute appendicitis in a local population in Nigeria. Methods: Patients with acute appendicitis presenting between November 2013 and October 2014 were studied. At surgery, 1cm rim of appendix was cut from the base and transferred into the transport medium. The specimen was cultured for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. Antibiotic sensitivity test was performed. Results: Sixty patients were recruited. Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringes were the commonest aerobes and anaerobes respectively isolated. The aerobes were sensitive to third generation cephalosporins (78.1% – 86.2%) and flouroquinolones (75.9% – 77.6%) and resistant to amoxycilin with clavulanic acid. The anaerobes were sensitive to metronidazole (96.5%). Conclusion: The commonest aerobic and anaerobic bacteria isolated are Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringesrespectively. The aerobes are sensitive to flouroquinolones and third generation cephalosporin. Anaerobes are sensitive to metronidazole. Combination of Ciprofloxacin and Metronidazole as prophylactic antibiotics or as eventual treatment for catarrhal appendicitis is recommended.Key words: Bacteria, Appendicitis, Antibiotics