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Updated: Jun 15, 2026

Multiplex PCR Assay for Typing of Staphylococcal Cassette Chromosome Mec Types I to V in Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Published on: September 5, 2013
The Staphylococcus intermedius group of bacterial pathogens: species re-classification, pathogenesis and the
1The Roslin Institute and Centre for Infectious Diseases, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, UK. ross.fitzgerald@ed.ac.uk
Abstract:
Staphylococcus intermedius has been long regarded as the common cause of pyoderma in dogs and other animals. Despite its clinical importance, our understanding of the population genetics and pathogenesis of S. intermedius is limited. This review summarizes recent studies which have explored the genetic diversity of S. intermedius isolates resulting in a re-classification of the species and the identification of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius as the common canine pyoderma pathogen. Also discussed will be the recent identification and spread of meticillin-resistant strains of S. pseudintermedius in the context of their molecular evolution. While our understanding of S. pseudintermedius pathogenesis is very limited, it is hoped that current genome sequencing studies will result in fresh impetus for studies of disease pathogenesis and for the design of novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of canine pyoderma.
Insights
Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, not S. intermedius, is the primary cause of canine pyoderma. Research highlights its genetic diversity and the spread of antibiotic-resistant strains, guiding new treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Microbiology
- Bacterial Genetics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Staphylococcus intermedius was historically considered the main cause of pyoderma in dogs.
- Limited knowledge existed regarding the population genetics and pathogenesis of S. intermedius.
- Canine pyoderma is a significant clinical concern in veterinary medicine.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent studies on the genetic diversity of Staphylococcus isolates.
- To clarify the etiological agent responsible for canine pyoderma.
- To discuss the emergence and evolution of meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on Staphylococcus genetic diversity.
- Analysis of studies focusing on canine pyoderma pathogens.
- Examination of research on meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius evolution.
Main Results:
- Re-classification of Staphylococcus species, identifying Staphylococcus pseudintermedius as the key canine pyoderma pathogen.
- Identification and characterization of the spread of meticillin-resistant S. pseudintermedius strains.
- Limited understanding of S. pseudintermedius pathogenesis.
Conclusions:
- Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is the predominant cause of canine pyoderma.
- Understanding the molecular evolution of meticillin-resistant strains is crucial.
- Genome sequencing initiatives are expected to advance research into pathogenesis and therapeutics for canine pyoderma.
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