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Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis Virulence Strains as Causative Agents of Persistent Infections

Daniela Chessa1, Giulia Ganau1, Luisella Spiga1

  • 1Microbiology and Immunology Unit, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.

Plos One
|January 27, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Identifying specific genes can help distinguish invasive Staphylococcus strains from contaminants on medical devices. This rapid identification is crucial for diagnosing and treating nosocomial infections caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Medical Devices

Background:

  • Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus are leading causes of nosocomial infections and medical device contamination.
  • Distinguishing between invasive strains and skin flora contaminants is challenging.
  • Accurate identification of invasive Staphylococcus is critical for effective patient treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify specific genes for differentiating invasive from contaminating Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus.
  • To analyze adhesion and biofilm formation in clinical isolates from medical devices.
  • To compare the virulence of isolated pathogens against international controls.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative analysis of adhesion and biofilm formation.
  • Virulence factor assessment in clinical isolates.
  • Genetic marker identification for distinguishing pathogenic strains.

Main Results:

  • Specific genes were identified that differentiate invasive Staphylococcus strains from contaminants.
  • Adhesion and biofilm formation varied significantly between invasive and contaminating isolates.
  • Virulence profiles of clinical isolates were characterized in relation to international strains.

Conclusions:

  • The study successfully identified genetic markers for distinguishing invasive Staphylococcus from contaminants.
  • Understanding virulence factors aids in managing infections associated with medical implants.
  • This research improves diagnostic accuracy for Staphylococcus-related nosocomial infections.

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