Staphylococcus intermedius group

• S. intermedius
• S. pseudintermedius
• S. delphini

• Gram positive cocci in clusters (aerobic)

Clinical Significance

These organisms are part of commensal flora of many domesticated and wild animals and can cause a variety of infections in animals. Human infections often result from animal exposure, especially dog bites (although animal exposure not always a risk factor).

These organisms have been associated with bacteremia, skin/soft tissue, bone, joint and medical device related infections, endocarditis, brain abscesses, sinusitis, and pneumonia.  

Many infections are polymicrobial. They have also been implicated in outbreaks of gastroenteritis.

Usual Susceptibility Pattern

Resistance to cloxacillin is increasing. Addition of empiric vancomycin is recommended in serious infections until susceptibility results are available.

Susceptibility to clindamycin, doxycycline, and TMP/SMX is variable.

They are susceptible to vancomycin.