ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE PROFILE IN URINE CULTURES AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR THERAPY

Abstract

Introduction: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) represent a significant public health problem, particularly given the rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which compromises therapeutic efficacy. Objective: To analyze scientific evidence regarding the microbiological profile and antimicrobial resistance patterns identified in urine cultures, considering their implications for the rational prescribing of antimicrobials. Methodology: This is a descriptive, qualitative literature review covering articles published between January 2021 and August 2026 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. The following descriptors were used: Urinary Tract Infections, Urine Culture, Microbial Drug Resistance, Antibacterial Agents, and Rational Use of Medicines, combined using the Boolean operators AND and OR. Study selection followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines, resulting in the inclusion of five studies. Data were organized into a table and analyzed descriptively and comparatively. Results: The studies showed a predominance of Escherichia coli among the isolated pathogens and significant antimicrobial resistance particularly to ampicillin, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, and ciprofloxacin with variations depending on the population and context analyzed. Resistance mechanisms, such as the production of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) and carbapenemases, were also identified. The findings underscore the importance of urine culture, susceptibility testing, and the rational use of antimicrobials in guiding therapy and helping to combat antimicrobial resistance. In this context, the pharmacist's role in antimicrobial stewardship and in promoting therapeutic safety and effectiveness is highlighted.