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Corynebacterium striatum: an underappreciated community and nosocomial pathogen

Prescott P Lee1, Donald A Ferguson, Felix A Sarubbi

  • 1James H. Quillen VA Medical Center, Mountain Home, TN 37684, USA.

The Journal of Infection
|April 23, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Corynebacterium striatum (CS) is an emerging pathogen causing severe infections, particularly in males and associated with medical devices. Early vancomycin treatment and device removal are key for managing CS infections, including rare cases like pancreatic abscesses.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Clinical Microbiology
  • Bacteriology

Background:

  • Corynebacterium striatum (CS) is increasingly recognized as a significant human pathogen.
  • CS infections affect both immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals, often occurring nosocomially.
  • Common infection sites include bloodstream, lungs, and the central nervous system, frequently linked to medical devices.

Observation:

  • CS infections are more prevalent in males.
  • Medical devices such as intravascular catheters and CNS drainage devices are strongly associated with CS acquisition.
  • A unique case of a CS pancreatic abscess is presented.

Findings:

  • Empirical vancomycin therapy is recommended due to variable susceptibility to other antibiotics.
  • Removal of foreign materials, like catheters, is a crucial part of treatment.
  • Linezolid was effective in treating the presented case of CS pancreatic abscess.

Implications:

  • Highlights the growing clinical importance of Corynebacterium striatum as a pathogen.
  • Emphasizes the need for vigilance regarding CS in healthcare settings, especially with device use.
  • Suggests linezolid as a potential treatment option for refractory CS infections.

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