Characterization and identification of 95 diphtheroid (group JK) cultures isolated from clinical specimens

Abstract

Ninety-five cultures of group JK bacteria isolated from clinical specimens were characterized morphologically and biochemically. The microorganisms were isolated primarily from blood cultures. The bacterial cultures produced positive reactions when tested for catalase, Tween hydrolysis, and carbohydrate fermentation. Glucose and galactose were fermented by more than 90% of the organisms. Gas-liquid chromatography of trimethylsilyl derivatives of whole-cell hydrolysates of some of the group JK cultures yielded nearly identical elution profiles. The group JK microorganisms were susceptible to vancomycin but were resistant to most of the other 17 antimicrobial agents tested. A method is presented for differentiating the group JK microorganisms from other similar bacteria encountered in clinical specimens. Although these bacteria rarely occur in clinical specimens, they are capable of producing fatal infections (endocarditis and sepsis) in humans.

Corynebacterium Jeikeium Endocarditis

“…These microorganisms were called "Group JK bacteria." 7,8 Later in 1987, Corynebacteria belonging to the group JK, that were associated with endocarditis, were taxonomically described to represent a new species within this genus called C. jeikeium based on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of cellular proteins and DNA-DNA hybridization studies. 9 C. jeikeium is part of healthy human skin flora, most commonly present in the axillary, inguinal and rectal regions.…”

“…isolated from clinical specimens (primarily blood cultures) were characterized morphologically and biochemically by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These microorganisms were called “Group JK bacteria.” 7,8 Later in 1987, Corynebacteria belonging to the group JK, that were associated with endocarditis, were taxonomically described to represent a new species within this genus called C. jeikeium based on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of cellular proteins and DNA-DNA hybridization studies. 9 C .…”

“…jeikeium also has some biochemical characteristics to help identification, including acid production from glucose, negative urease test, and negative nitrite reduction (Table 1). 8…”