Chapter 27, Problem 1AQ

Summary Introduction

To explain:

A blood culture is found to be positive for Staphylococcus epidermidis and explain its findings. Is it likely the patient has this bacteremia? Prepare a list of possibilities and questions for the discussion with the physician in charge. What additional information will be needed to rule out or to confirm a bloodstream infection due to S. epidermidis?

Introduction:

The pathogens were identified using various laboratory techniques. An important tool of diagnosis for many infectious diseases is the direct detection and culture of pathogens in the clinical specimens. The clinical specimen includes blood, fecal, urine, wound, and genital specimens. Appropriate observation, sampling, and culture techniques are essential for the isolation and identification of the potential pathogens. The knowledge of the physiology, ecology, and the suspected pathogen’s metabolism is required for the selection of techniques.