Antibiotic Resistance Profile and Biofilm Production of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius Isolated from Dogs in

Pavarish Jantorn1, Hawaree Heemmamad2, Tanawan Soimala3

  • 1Division of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla 90110, Thailand.

Insights

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) is prevalent in dogs in Thailand, with most strains forming biofilms. This finding is crucial for understanding antimicrobial resistance in veterinary medicine.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Microbiology
  • Antimicrobial Resistance
  • Zoonotic Diseases

Background:

  • Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is a significant zoonotic pathogen causing severe infections in animals and humans.
  • Methicillin-resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) poses a therapeutic challenge, necessitating research into its characteristics, including biofilm formation.
  • Understanding the prevalence and resistance patterns of MRSP is vital for effective treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the prevalence and characteristics of S. pseudintermedius, particularly MRSP, in dogs in southern Thailand.
  • To investigate the biofilm production capabilities of S. pseudintermedius isolates.
  • To determine the antibiotic resistance profiles and potential correlations with biofilm formation.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and identification of S. pseudintermedius from dogs at a veterinary teaching hospital.
  • Detection of the mecA gene to confirm methicillin resistance.
  • Antibiotic susceptibility testing against various antimicrobial agents.
  • Assessment of biofilm production using standard laboratory methods.

Main Results:

  • 28.30% of S. pseudintermedius isolates were identified as MRSP, with 93.33% of these harboring the mecA gene.
  • MRSP strains exhibited co-resistance to multiple antibiotics, including chloramphenicol, clindamycin, tetracycline, clarithromycin, ciprofloxacin, and trimethoprim.
  • All isolates produced biofilms, with 90.55% classified as strong or moderate producers. A significant portion (45-60%) of resistant strains were strong biofilm producers, though the correlation was not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

  • This study highlights the considerable prevalence of MRSP in dogs in southern Thailand.
  • The high capacity for biofilm production among S. pseudintermedius isolates, including resistant strains, suggests a potential role in persistent infections.
  • The findings contribute to the understanding of antimicrobial resistance emergence and spread in S. pseudintermedius, informing veterinary clinical practices.