Staphylocccus intermedius group infections in humans: report of four cases and a literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Staphylococcus intermedius group (SIG) comprises coagulase-positive staphylococci isolated from veterinary wounds, with anecdotal association of this pathogen and disease in humans. To date, 28 human cases have been described in the literature. Here, we described four cases of human infection caused by SIG members and, through a literature review, identified potential common characteristics and risk factors for this infection. Case presentations: Cases were obtained via electronic query of existing microbiology records for S. intermedius isolates at three teaching hospitals in Denver, CO, USA, between 2003 and 2008. Four cases were identified. Three cases were soft tissue and/or bone infection and one case was a urinary tract infection. Conclusion: Staphylococcus intermedius infections in humans are rarely identified. Dog ownership as well as diabetes or other causes of immunosuppression may place patients at higher risk. Misidentifying SIG infections could lead to delays in treatment as well as undertreatment of this zoonosis.