From the Research
Staphylococcus caprae skin infections should be treated with antibiotics such as cephalexin or dicloxacillin, with consideration of methicillin resistance and local susceptibility patterns, as evidenced by the most recent study 1. When treating Staphylococcus caprae skin infections, it is essential to consider the potential for methicillin resistance and to choose an antibiotic that is effective against the specific strain of bacteria.
- Cephalexin (500mg four times daily for 7-10 days) or dicloxacillin (500mg four times daily for 7-10 days) are suitable options for methicillin-susceptible strains.
- For methicillin-resistant strains, consider trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (1-2 double-strength tablets twice daily for 7-10 days) or clindamycin (300-450mg three times daily for 7-10 days) 1.
- Topical mupirocin 2% ointment applied three times daily for 5-7 days may be sufficient for minor, localized infections.
- Good wound care, including cleaning with soap and water, keeping the area dry, and covering with sterile dressings, is essential for preventing the spread of infection and promoting healing. Staphylococcus caprae is a coagulase-negative staphylococcal species that can occasionally cause skin infections in humans, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or those with implanted medical devices, as noted in a study published in 2018 2. The bacteria can form biofilms, making some infections difficult to eradicate completely without removing infected devices. In cases where the infection is severe or does not respond to initial treatment, it may be necessary to switch to a different antibiotic or to add additional treatments, such as surgical drainage or debridement. It is also important to note that the tolerability of cefazolin in patients who are intolerant to nafcillin is high, with 89% of patients completing cefazolin therapy without issues, as reported in a 2021 study 3.