Related Experiment Videos
[Urinary Staphylococcus epidermidis: a pathogen or contamination?].
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift
|February 11, 1978
Summary
Staphylococcus epidermidis is often found in urine samples but does not appear to cause urinary tract disease. Statistical analysis of over 1000 samples found no significant link between this bacterium and infection symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Urology
- Clinical Science
Context:
- Investigating the role of Staphylococcus epidermidis in urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Analyzing data from 678 suprapubic bladder aspirations and 416 conventional urine samples.
- Evaluating the correlation between microbe concentration and clinical UTI signs.
Purpose:
- To statistically determine the pathogenicity of Staphylococcus epidermidis in the human urinary tract.
- To ascertain if the presence of Staphylococcus epidermidis in urine correlates with UTI symptoms.
Summary:
- Statistical analysis of urine samples (n=1094) revealed no significant correlation between Staphylococcus epidermidis detection and clinical signs of urinary tract disease.
- The presence of Staphylococcus epidermidis, even at concentrations >= 10(4) microbes/ml, was not statistically linked to UTI symptoms.
- Findings suggest Staphylococcus epidermidis may not be a primary uropathogen in many cases.
Impact:
- Challenges the traditional view of Staphylococcus epidermidis as a common UTI pathogen.
- Informs clinical decision-making regarding the diagnosis and treatment of UTIs.
- Highlights the need for further research into the specific conditions under which Staphylococcus epidermidis may cause disease.