Antibiotic Resistance and Adhesion Properties of Oral Enterococci in Tunisian Children
Author Information
Author(s): Kouidhi Bochra, Zmantar Tarek, Mahdouani Kacem, Hentati Hajer, Bakhrouf Amina
Primary Institution: Université de Monastir (Tunisie)
Hypothesis
This study aimed to explore the carriage rate of Enterococci in the oral cavity of Tunisian children and their antimicrobial susceptibility to a broad range of antibiotics together with their adherence ability to abiotic and biotic surfaces.
Conclusion
The study found that Enterococci in the oral cavity of Tunisian children exhibit high levels of antibiotic resistance and strong adhesion properties, which may contribute to their role in oral infections.
Supporting Evidence
- 17 E. faecalis and 4 E. faecium strains were identified from the oral cavity.
- 71% of E. faecalis strains were slime producers.
- All tested strains adhered to at least one of the two tested cell lines.
Takeaway
This study shows that some bacteria in our mouths can resist medicine and stick to our cells, which can make us sick.
Methodology
The study involved isolating Enterococci from the oral cavities of 62 children, testing their antibiotic resistance, and assessing their ability to adhere to human cells.
Limitations
The study was limited to a specific population of Tunisian children and may not be generalizable to other populations.
Participant Demographics
62 children aged 4 to 12 years, including 34 caries active and 28 caries free.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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