Common Pathogenic Organisms in Chronic Blepharitis in Benghazi
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35778/jazu.i56.a687Keywords:
Blepharitis, Staphylococcus aureus, Antibiotic susceptibility, Eyelid infection, Gentamicin, Vancomycin.Abstract
Blepharitis is a common inflammatory condition of the eyelids, often associated with bacterial colonization and chronic inflammation, causing redness, irritation, and discomfort. Aim of Study: This study aimed to identify the predominant pathogens causing blepharitis, assess diagnostic methods, and determine the most effective antibiotics for treatment. Methods: A total of 20 patients (8 males, 12 females, aged 18–80) with blepharitis were sampled at Benghazi Teaching Eye Hospital between July 30 and August 30, 2024. Swabs from the eyelids were cultured on bacterial and fungal media, followed by biochemical identification of isolates. Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method against ten antibiotics. Results: Bacterial growth was detected in 14 samples (70%), fungal growth in 2 samples (10%), while 4 samples (20%) showed no growth. The most frequent bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus (43%) and coagulase-negative staphylococci (29%). Antibiotic sensitivity was highest for gentamicin and vancomycin (93%), while resistance was notable against oxacillin (57%), penicillin, and ceftriaxone (43%).
Conclusion: Blepharitis in this population is predominantly bacterial, with S. aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci as the main pathogens. Culture-guided therapy using gentamicin, vancomycin, or tetracycline is recommended due to observed resistance to older β-lactam antibiotics, and fungal involvement should be considered in persistent cases.
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