COMPARATIVE IN VIVO EFFICACY OF MEROPENEM AND AZITHROMYCIN AGAINST SALMONELLA TYPHI IN PAEDS

Abstract

Introduction: Typhoid (Enteric) Fever (TF) is a human-restricted infection caused by the pathogens Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (S. Typhi) and Paratyphi (S. Paratyphi), symptomatic indication of federating communicability and debilitating sickness with high mortality when neglected.

Objective: The main objective of the study is to find the comparative in vivo efficacy of meropenem and azithromycin against salmonella typhi in paeds.

Methodology of the study: This randomized control trial (RCT) was conducted at Saidu group of teaching Hospitals (SGTH) Saidu Sharif Swat from January 2023 to August 2023. A total of 152 patients aged 2 to 16 years were included in the study. Patients with clinical symptoms consistent with typhoid fever, abdominal pain, headache, and a positive blood culture for Salmonella Typhi were included in the study. Data were collected in two groups. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either meropenem or azithromycin.

Results: Mean age of patients in meropenem group was 8.5 ± 3.4 years and in azithromycin group was 8.7 ± 3.2 years. Out of 152 there were 74 male and 78 female patients. Mean duration of fever was 6.2 ± 1.3 days and 6.1 ± 1.4 days respectively in both groups. The incidence of complications was low in both groups. Gastrointestinal bleeding occurred in 1 patient (1.3%) in the meropenem group and 2 patients (2.6%) in the azithromycin group (p = 0.56). Hepatic dysfunction was observed in 2 patients (2.6%) in both groups (p = 1.00), while perforation occurred in 1 patient (1.3%) in the meropenem group and 2 patients (2.6%) in the azithromycin group (p = 0.56).

Conclusion: Both meropenem and azithromycin are highly effective and safe for treating pediatric typhoid fever, with comparable cure rates and similar incidence of complications and adverse events.