A Retrospective Study (2015 - 2022) on Brucellosis: Risk Factors, Clinical Disease, Treatment and Outcome in a Tertiary University Hospital in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease that is very common in the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where contact with livestock is high, increasing the risk of transmission. Even though numerous control measures have been implemented, the disease remains a significant public health concern. Objectives: The present study aimed to examine the demographic distribution, clinical features, primary sources of infection, diagnostic methods, and treatment strategies of brucellosis cases to improve understanding of disease management and recurrence prevention. Methods: A retrospective study of 103 confirmed brucellosis cases was conducted over a seven-year period (2015 - 2022) at King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH), a tertiary care hospital, to identify risk factors, clinical presentations, epidemiological patterns, and outcomes associated with the disease. Results: The majority of the patients with brucellosis were males (66%). Blood culture and serology were found to be positive in 91.3% and 76.7% of the cases, respectively. The most common source of infection was unpasteurized animal products (47.6%), and the most prevalent complication was spondylitis (11.7%). The main clinical feature was fever (90.3%), and the most common lab finding was anemia (68.9%). Most cases were cured (79.6%), and the relapse rate was only 3.9%. The most used antibiotic protocol for treating brucellosis was doxycycline + rifampicin combination therapy (44.7%). Conclusions: This study emphasizes the importance of continued vigilance, quick diagnosis, and strict adherence to treatment protocols. It also recommends future studies with a diverse population and larger sample size to validate these findings and facilitate better understanding, management, and treatment of brucellosis.