Staphylococcus epidermidis albus, also known as Staphylococcus epidermidis, is a gram-positive bacterium that commonly resides on the skin and mucous membranes of humans and animals. It belongs to the genus Staphylococcus and is a member of the coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) group, which distinguishes it from the more pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus.
This bacterium is typically found in large numbers on the skin, especially around the sweat glands and hair follicles. It is a commensal organism, meaning that it usually does not cause harm to the host. However, it can occasionally become opportunistic and cause infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems, those with indwelling medical devices such as catheters or prosthetic implants, or those who have undergone surgery.
Infections caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis albus are often associated with healthcare settings, such as hospitals or nursing homes, where the bacterium can colonize medical devices or be transmitted via direct contact with healthcare personnel. Common infections include urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections (septicemia), wound infections, and infections related to implanted medical devices.
Treatment of infections caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis albus often involves the use of antibiotics. However, this bacterium has developed resistance to many antibiotics, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE), making it challenging to treat. Therefore, prevention of infections through strict adherence to infection control practices and proper device management is crucial in healthcare settings.
