Helcococcus spp

• H. kunzii
• H. ovis
• H. pyogenes
• H. sueciensis

Gram Stain

• Gram positive cocci in pairs, tetrads and clusters (aerobic)

Clinical Significance

These organisms may colonize the skin and have been recovered (often in association with other organisms) from wound infections, especially in patients with peripheral vascular disease or diabetes.

They have been recovered in pure culture from cysts and abscesses (including breast abscesses).

They have rarely been reported to cause opportunistic infections including septicemia and empyema.

Usual Susceptibility Pattern

These organisms are typically susceptible to penicillin, ceftriaxone, and vancomycin.

Most are resistant to macrolides while susceptibility to clindamycin is variable.