<i>Corynebacterium striatum</i> infections in oncologic patients: clinical spectrum, resistance profiles, and evidence of nosocomial transmission

The use of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry, employed for bacterial species identification in this study, has enhanced the recognition of <i>Corynebacterium striatum</i> as an important human pathogen in clinical microbiology laboratories. Our study demonstrated that <i>C. striatum</i> is associated with various healthcare-associated infections, including those requiring prolonged antimicrobial therapy, and that nosocomial transmission of this pathogen can result in the development of infections. In addition, several agents other than vancomycin, such as teicoplanin, tetracyclines, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, have demonstrated favorable activities. The results of this study indicate the need for further research on the mechanisms and modes of nosocomial transmission of <i>C. striatum</i>, as well as the clinical efficacy of alternative agents to vancomycin, particularly those suitable for prolonged treatment, given the potential side effects associated with vancomycin use.