Kocuria spp
- K. kristinae
- K. marinae
- K. rhizophila
- K. rosea
Gram Stain
- Gram positive cocci in tetrads and clusters (aerobic)
Clinical Significance
These organisms are found in the environment and are considered saprophytes of skin and mucous membranes.
They can cause opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients especially those with hematological malignancies or metabolic disorders (including diabetes).
They have been associated with catheter related peritonitis, catheter related bacteremia, native/prosthetic valve endocarditis, sepsis (including febrile neutropenia), mediastinitis, brain and abdominal abscesses, cholecystitis, and wound/dermatologic infections.
Some species have also been implicated in ophthalmic infections including dacrocystitis, canaliculitis, and keratitis.
Usual Susceptibility Pattern
These organisms are usually susceptible to beta-lactams (resistance to ampicillin, cloxacillin, and cefazolin has been rarely described), macrolides, tetracyclines, rifampin, vancomycin, and linezolid.
Susceptibility to clindamycin and quinolones is variable.
These organisms are resistant to nitrofurantoin.
Empiric Therapy |
---|
Ceftriaxone |
For medical device related infections, add: |
Rifampin |
+/- |
Gentamicin |