Abstract:

nd: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most commonly encountered bacterial infections both in community and health-care settings. Objective: We determine the prevalence of virulence factors and serotypes associated with uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). In addition, we also compare the possible relationship between virulence factors with serotypes. Materials and Methods: A total of 200 E. coli isolates were collected from clinically suspected UTI and detection of virulence factors such as hemolysin production, hemagglutination, biofilm formation, and also serotyping was done. Results: The incidence of UTI was more in the age group of 21–30 years and more in females. Hemolysin production was seen in 23% strains. Hemagglutination was shown by total 127 (63.5%) isolates. One hundred nine (54.5%) isolates showed production of moderate and high-value biofilms. Among the serotypes, O1, O2, O8, O90, O101, and O125 were the most commonly isolated uropathogens. Among all the serotypes of UPEC isolates, maximum hemolysin production and hemagglutination were seen in O8 serotype. Conclusion: Certain serotypes of UPEC are more commonly associated with UTI. These serotypes have a wide array of virulence factors and their identification may facilitate the application of more precise approaches in diagnosis of UTIs

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