IMPLICATIONS OF PATHOGEN DISTRIBUTION AND ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE IN ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL INFECTIONS FOR ATHLETES: A FOCUS ON RECOVERY AND PAIN MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Purpose: This study analyzes the distribution and drug resistance of pathogenic bacteria in oral and maxillofacial space infections, with a particular focus on how these infections impact athletes, potentially affecting their training and performance due to recovery processes. Methods: A cohort of 157 patients, including athletes, diagnosed with oral and maxillofacial infections between May 2020 and October 2022, were studied. Infections were cultured from purulent secretions on both aerobic and anaerobic media, and pathogen identification was carried out using an automated microbial analysis system. Antibiotic sensitivity was tested using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Results: The most common site of infection was the submandibular space (43.95%), primarily resulting from adenogenic sources (73.25%). A significant prevalence of gram-positive bacteria (61.45%) was noted, with Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae being predominant. High drug resistance was observed in common pathogens against standard antibiotics, necessitating careful selection of treatment to avoid drug resistance. Notably, the impact of these infections and their treatment on athletes was profound, affecting their training schedules and overall physical readiness due to varied recovery times influenced by the bacterial strain and its drug resistance. Conclusion: Oral and maxillofacial space infections, particularly those resistant to common antibiotics, pose a significant challenge in managing athlete health. The high incidence of such infections and their complex resistance patterns require targeted therapeutic strategies to minimize downtime and ensure quick recovery. This study underscores the importance of precise diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to manage such infections in athletes, promoting faster recovery and return to training. Incorporating routine surveillance of pathogen distribution and resistance patterns in sports health management can optimize treatment regimens and enhance athlete care.