Staphylococcus epidermidis coagulase status?

Study for the NBEO Microbiology exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Staphylococcus epidermidis coagulase status?

Explanation:
Coagulase status is used to tell Staphylococcus aureus apart from other Staphylococcus species. Staphylococcus aureus is coagulase-positive, meaning it produces the enzyme that clots plasma. Staphylococcus epidermidis, on the other hand, is part of the coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) and does not produce coagulase. That’s why Staphylococcus epidermidis is expected to yield a negative coagulase test. A positive result would point toward S. aureus, while an undetermined or “both” result doesn’t fit this organism’s profile.

Coagulase status is used to tell Staphylococcus aureus apart from other Staphylococcus species. Staphylococcus aureus is coagulase-positive, meaning it produces the enzyme that clots plasma. Staphylococcus epidermidis, on the other hand, is part of the coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) and does not produce coagulase. That’s why Staphylococcus epidermidis is expected to yield a negative coagulase test. A positive result would point toward S. aureus, while an undetermined or “both” result doesn’t fit this organism’s profile.

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