From the Guidelines
The primary treatment for Staphylococcus lugdunensis infections is cloxacillin, as it is always methicillin susceptible. For the treatment of Staphylococcus lugdunensis infections, the following regimens can be considered:
- First-line treatment: Cloxacillin, as recommended by the 2015 ESC guidelines for the management of infective endocarditis 1
- The choice of antibiotic is based on S. lugdunensis typically being susceptible to beta-lactam antibiotics, such as cloxacillin
- It's essential to note that S. lugdunensis can cause aggressive infections, particularly endocarditis, so prompt treatment is crucial
- Surgical intervention may be necessary for certain infections, such as abscesses or endocarditis with valve destruction The 2015 ESC guidelines 1 provide evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of Staphylococcus lugdunensis infections, emphasizing the importance of using effective antistaphylococcal drugs to increase activity and avoid the development of resistance. Key considerations in the treatment of S. lugdunensis infections include:
- The severity and location of the infection
- The potential for methicillin resistance, although S. lugdunensis is always methicillin susceptible
- The need for prompt treatment to prevent aggressive infections, such as endocarditis
- The importance of adjusting therapy based on culture and sensitivity results when available.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Staphylococcus lugdunensis Infections
- The treatment for Staphylococcus lugdunensis infections typically involves antibiotics, with the specific choice of antibiotic depending on the severity and location of the infection 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- In cases of skin and soft tissue infections, antibiotics such as oxacillin, penicillin G, and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid have been shown to be effective 2, 3, 5.
- For more severe infections, such as infective endocarditis or bone and joint infections, treatment with a β-lactam agent may be recommended 4.
- The duration of antibiotic treatment can vary, but it is typically ranges from 5 to 21 days 2.
Antibiotic Susceptibility
- Staphylococcus lugdunensis isolates have been shown to be susceptible to a wide range of antibiotics, including oxacillin, penicillin G, and cefoxitin 2, 3, 6.
- However, resistance to certain antibiotics, such as penicillin and clindamycin, has been observed in some cases 3, 5, 6.
- The susceptibility pattern of S. lugdunensis isolates can vary, and antibiotic susceptibility testing should be performed to guide treatment decisions 3, 5, 6.
Surgical Drainage
- In some cases, surgical drainage may be necessary in addition to antibiotic treatment, particularly for abscesses or other purulent infections 2, 6.
- The decision to perform surgical drainage should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the severity and location of the infection, as well as the patient's overall health status.