Evaluation of Drug-resistant Streptococcus Pneumoniae in Patients Treated in Pediatric Hospital of Warsaw Medical University in 2012-2013

Introduction. Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common pathogen causing respiratory tract infections and invasive infections. In 2012 and 2013 we observed an increased incidence of drug-resistant SP in patients treated in Pediatric Hospital of Warsaw Medical University. Aim. To evaluate the pneumococcal infections and the susceptibility to antibiotics. To examine the correlation between the incidence of pneumococcal infection and the use of pneumococcal vaccines. Material and methods. The study included 38 children hospitalized due to pneumococcal infection in 2012 and 2013 in Pediatric Hospital of Warsaw Medical University. Basic information about microbiological examination, previous vaccine administration and hospitalization were gathered retrospectively and analyzed. Results. Forty four specimens were obtained from 38 patients. Body culture sites were as follows: middle ear, nasal cavity sinuses, conjunctiva, pharynx. The drug-resistant strains were found in 12 cases. The patients suffered from meningitis, acute otitis media and rhinosinusitis. Isolates from 26 patients were described as susceptible. The infections developed as: acute otitis media, rhinosinusitis and pneumonia. Pneumococcal conjugate has been applied to 8 children before the hospitalization. Twenty two children had not been previously vaccinated. One out of 8 all vaccinated patients suffered from drug resistant pneumococcal infection. Children without active immunization developed drug resistant infection in 10 cases. Conclusions. Pneumococcal infections occur less frequently in children with previous vaccine administration. Drug resistant isolates are more frequently responsible for invasive pneumococcal disease. Pediatric otolaryngologists recommend active immunization against Streptococcus pneumoniae.