Genomic and phenotypic diversity among taxonomically ambiguous clinical Corynebacterium isolates

This study expands our knowledge of Corynebacterium isolates derived from clinical specimens, particularly those differing from well-characterized species. It underscores the extensive geno- and phenotypic variability within most Corynebacterium species and challenges current species boundary definitions. The extensive level of detected AMR may complicate treatment of underlying infections. However, it remains uncertain whether these isolates represent true infectious agents or contaminants derived from the skin of the patients.