Скачать или смотреть Staphylococcus saprophyticus; Definition, Habitat, Infections, Resistance & Risks, Prevention, Treat

🦠 Staphylococcus saprophyticus is a Gram-positive, coagulase-negative, facultative anaerobic coccus that’s part of the normal flora of the female genitourinary tract, perineum, and gastrointestinal tract. While usually harmless, it’s a leading cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in sexually active young women, second only to Escherichia coli.

🔬 Key Characteristics:
Gram-positive cocci in clusters

Catalase-positive, coagulase-negative

Novobiocin-resistant (helps distinguish it from S. epidermidis)

Urease-positive: contributes to urinary tract colonization and stone formation

Non-hemolytic or weakly hemolytic on blood agar

Grows on mannitol salt agar, but does not ferment mannitol

🧫 Where It’s Found:
Perineum, urethra, vagina, and rectum

Occasionally found in meat, cheese, and environmental sources

Can colonize urinary catheters and hospital surfaces

🧪 Clinical Significance:
Infection Type Examples
Urinary tract infections Cystitis, pyelonephritis (especially in young women)
Urethritis Inflammation of the urethra
Prostatitis In men, though rare
Epididymitis Inflammation of the epididymis
Sepsis (rare) In immunocompromised or catheterized patients
🧬 Virulence Factors:
Urease: Raises urine pH, promoting stone formation

Adhesins: Enable attachment to uroepithelial cells

Biofilm formation: Enhances persistence on urinary catheters and mucosa

💊 Treatment:
Typically susceptible to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, nitrofurantoin, and quinolones

Resistant to novobiocin (a key diagnostic feature)

Short-course antibiotics are usually effective for uncomplicated UTIs

🧠 Fun Fact:
S. saprophyticus is sometimes called the “honeymoon cystitis” bug because UTIs caused by it often occur within 24 hours of sexual activity in young women.

#Staphylococcus