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Efficacy of clarithromycin on biofilm formation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius

Matthew Dicicco1, Suresh Neethirajan, Ameet Singh

  • 1School of Engineering, University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada.

BMC Veterinary Research
|November 23, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Clarithromycin (CLA) does not eradicate methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) biofilms in companion animals. This study found CLA ineffective against MRSP biofilms on common materials, highlighting a need for new treatments for these infections.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Surgical site infections (SSIs) caused by biofilm-forming methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) are a significant concern in companion animals.
  • Current therapeutic options for MRSP biofilms in SSIs are limited.
  • Clarithromycin (CLA) has demonstrated efficacy in preventing biofilm formation in Staphylococcus aureus.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the in vitro efficacy of Clarithromycin (CLA) in eradicating existing MRSP biofilms.
  • To assess CLA's activity against MRSP biofilms formed on various materials relevant to veterinary surgery.

Main Methods:

  • Quantitative assays were performed to measure MRSP biofilm formation.
  • Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was utilized to visualize MRSP biofilms on orthopaedic implants.
  • MRSP isolates were characterized for their in vitro activity against antibiotics.

Main Results:

  • Quantitative assays showed no significant eradication of MRSP biofilms by CLA on polystyrene after 4-24 hours.
  • SEM confirmed that CLA did not eradicate MRSP biofilms formed on orthopaedic implant materials.
  • In vitro data indicates CLA is not effective in eradicating S. pseudintermedius biofilms at therapeutic doses.

Conclusions:

  • Clarithromycin (CLA) does not effectively eradicate Staphylococcus pseudintermedius biofilms at therapeutic doses.
  • In vitro models are crucial for understanding MRSP biofilm-related infections and antibiotic activity.
  • Further research is needed to develop effective treatments for MRSP biofilm infections in veterinary medicine.

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