Gram positive anaerobic bacilli (non-spore formers)

Question 1

P. acnes

Answer 1

Most frequently clinically isolated non-spore forming bacillus

Question 2

Where is P. acnes normal flora?

Answer 2

○ Normal flora of the skin (deep within follicles and pores)
○ Nasopharynx
○ oral cavity
○ gastrointestinal tracts

Question 3

Where are P. acnes infections found?

Answer 3

○ Prosthetic devices such as heart valves and prosthetic joints, bacteremia, endocarditis and acne vulgaris
○ Found as a skin contaminant in blood culture bottles

Question 4

How is P. acnes treated?

Answer 4

Antibiotic therapy such as:
○ Erythromycin
○ Clindamycin
○ Doxycycline
○ Quinolones
○ Cephalosporins
Penicillin G

Question 5

What else can treat P. acnes besides antibiotics?

Answer 5

○ natural compounds like:
○ tea tree oil
○ Rosemary
○ clove oil