From the Research
Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are unlikely to cause impetigo, as the primary pathogens responsible for this condition are Staphylococcus aureus and group A Streptococcus. Impetigo is a common skin infection characterized by honey-crusted or bullous lesions, and CoNS lack the virulence factors necessary to cause such infections 1. While CoNS can occasionally cause opportunistic infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or those with indwelling medical devices, they are not typical pathogens in impetigo 2.
Some key points to consider:
- CoNS are common skin commensals, but they are not typically associated with impetigo 3
- Staphylococcus aureus and group A Streptococcus are the primary causes of impetigo, and treatment typically focuses on these pathogens 4
- CoNS can develop resistance to multiple antibiotics, making treatment challenging 5
- If a patient has risk factors for unusual pathogens or is not responding to standard therapy, further investigation may be warranted to identify if an atypical organism like CoNS might be involved 1
In terms of treatment, antibiotics like mupirocin ointment or oral antibiotics such as cephalexin or clindamycin are typically used to treat impetigo caused by S. aureus or Streptococcus 3, 4. However, if CoNS are suspected or identified as the causative agent, treatment may need to be adjusted accordingly, taking into account the potential for antibiotic resistance 5, 1.