ID:IOTS - Infectious Disease Insight Of Two Specialists 4: Completing cocci
Aug 17, 2021
Explore the intriguing world of gram-positive cocci and their clinical implications. Learn about their diverse classifications and the challenge of identifying these bacteria. Discover the unexpected role of micrococci as potential contaminants in blood cultures. Delve into the complexities of Leuconostoc and Abiotrophia, especially in treatable infections. Finally, uncover the significance of vancomycin-resistant strains and a handy mnemonic to remember them. Each discussion highlights the nuances of infectious diseases and treatment approaches.
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Diverse Gram-Positive Cocci Grouping
- Gram-positive cocci beyond staphylococci and streptococci are genetically diverse and heterogeneous in pathogenicity.
- These organisms often only cause disease when given access to sterile sites or in immunocompromised hosts.
Start With Cluster/Chain Morphology
- When microscopy shows gram-positive cocci in clusters or chains, first consider staphylococci (clusters) or streptococci (chains).
- Then pursue identification for less common genera if initial tests don't match expected organisms.
Micrococcus Tetrads And Contamination
- Micrococcus luteus commonly appears as skin flora and lab contaminants and classically forms tetrads on microscopy.
- It can rarely cause prosthetic-device infections but seldom causes serious disease otherwise.
