Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Clinical Impact of Multidrug-Resistant Organisms in Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Dr. P. Udaya Sri, Dr. Madala Sambasivarao, Dr. Suhas, Dr. N. V. Ramu Garikipudi

Abstract: Background: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) present a major complication of diabetes in India, with multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) escalating therapeutic challenges. Methods: An 18-month prospective observational study at ASRAM hospital enrolled 150 diabetic patients with foot lesions. Demographics, clinical data, and microbiology were analyzed using Chi-square, Student?s t-test, and multivariate logistic regression. Results: MDROs were detected in 68% of infected ulcers and accounted for 56.8% of all isolates. Polymicrobial infections occurred in 60.66% of cases, with gram-negative rods predominating (69.89%). The most frequent isolates were, 1) Escherichia coli (21.9%), 2) Staphylococcus aureus (18.6%), 3) Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18.2%). Recurrent ulcers (OR = 3.32) and higher Wagner?s grades (OR = 13.34) independently predicted MDRO infection. MDRO presence prolonged hospital stay (12.36 vs. 7.64 days; p < 0.001) and increased amputation rates (38.4% vs. 18.6%; p < 0.01). Delayed wound healing correlated with peripheral vascular disease, osteomyelitis, nephropathy, interdigital/digital ulcer location, and poor glycemic control. Conclusion: A high MDRO burden (68% of ulcers; 56.8% of isolates) exacerbates DFU outcomes in ASRAM. Tailored antibiotic policies and vigilant surveillance are imperative to curb resistance and improve healing.

Keywords: diabetic foot ulcers, multidrug-resistant organisms, hospital stay and amputation, antibiotic resistance, polymicrobial infections

How to Cite?: Dr. P. Udaya Sri, Dr. Madala Sambasivarao, Dr. Suhas, Dr. N. V. Ramu Garikipudi, "Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Clinical Impact of Multidrug-Resistant Organisms in Diabetic Foot Ulcers", Volume 14 Issue 7, July 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1870-1872, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25730164233, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25730164233