A 30-week premature neonate on day 10 develops temperature instability, feed intolerance, and CRP of 42 mg/L. Blood culture grows coagulase-negative Staphylococcus. Which of the following best describes the pathogenesis of this organism in late-onset neonatal sepsis?
- A Biofilm formation on intravascular catheters and prosthetic surfaces ✓
- B Production of exfoliative toxin causing skin blistering
- C Secretion of Panton-Valentine leukocidin causing tissue destruction
- D Beta-haemolysin production causing red blood cell lysis
Correct answer: A. Biofilm formation on intravascular catheters and prosthetic surfaces
Explanation
Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (especially S. epidermidis) causes late-onset neonatal sepsis predominantly via biofilm formation on intravascular catheters, total parenteral nutrition lines, and endotracheal tubes. Biofilm protects the organism from host defenses and antibiotics. Exfoliative toxin is produced by S. aureus (causing SSSS). Panton-Valentine leukocidin is associated with CA-MRSA. Haemolysin is a feature of S. aureus, not coagulase-negative species.
Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.