Koagulaasinegatiivisten

Koagulaasinegatiivisten refers to a group of bacteria that are characterized by their inability to produce the enzyme coagulase. Coagulase is a protein produced by some bacteria, notably Staphylococcus aureus, that causes fibrinogen to clot. This clotting ability is often used as a key diagnostic test to differentiate between different species of Staphylococcus. Therefore, bacteria that test negative for coagulase production are termed coagulase-negative staphylococci.

Common examples of coagulase-negative staphylococci include Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, and Staphylococcus haemolyticus. While less virulent than Staphylococcus aureus, these bacteria can still cause infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or those who have undergone medical procedures involving implanted devices like catheters or prosthetic joints. Their ability to form biofilms on these surfaces can make them particularly difficult to treat.

Coagulase-negative staphylococci are often found as normal flora on human skin and mucous membranes. However, they can become opportunistic pathogens when introduced into sterile sites of the body. Infections caused by these bacteria can range from skin and soft tissue infections to more serious conditions such as endocarditis, bloodstream infections, and urinary tract infections, especially in catheterized patients. Diagnosis typically involves laboratory culture and identification, with the coagulase test being a primary differentiator.