Which staphylococcus is most commonly associated with urinary tract infections in young females?

Study for the Apollon Bacteriology Test. Improve your knowledge with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready to excel on your exam!

Staphylococcus saprophyticus is the bacterium most frequently linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs) in young females. This specific species is known for its ability to adhere to uroepithelial cells, which contributes to its pathogenicity in the urinary tract. In young women, particularly those who are sexually active, S. saprophyticus is the second most common pathogen causing UTI after Escherichia coli.

S. epidermidis, on the other hand, is a coagulase-negative staphylococcus typically associated with skin flora and infections related to indwelling medical devices, rather than UTIs. S. aureus is primarily known for causing a range of infections, including skin and soft tissue infections, pneumonia, and sepsis, but it is not predominantly identified as a cause of UTIs. S. hominis, another coagulase-negative staphylococcus, is usually found as part of normal skin flora and is not typically associated with urinary tract infections.

Therefore, the specific attributes of S. saprophyticus make it the most relevant and frequent cause of urinary tract infections in the demographic specified, which is why this answer is the most appropriate.

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