Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, both commensal and pathogen

Abstract

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is considered to be a both commensal and opportunistic canine pathogen. The anal, perineal and nasal locations appear to be the main S. pseudintermedius colonization sites, from which bacteria are transmitted to other body sites, causing secondary infections. When the immune system is compromised because of an underlying condition, the skin becomes susceptible to infection. Thus, the host’s condition seems to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of S. pseudintermedius infections. There are some predisposing factors, one of which is atopic dermatitis. The pathogenic effects of S. pseudintermedius are mediated by several virulence factors, for instance superantigens, which play an important role by causing dermatitis. The immune system has evolved many different mechanisms to recognize and deal with pathogens, but bacteria have also developed various strategies to evade them. In this review, we focus on early stages of the innate immune response with particular emphasis on the mechanisms of recognition of staphylococci and the action of antimicrobial peptides. .