A wound infection culture revealed Gram-positive cocci in clusters. The bacteria were catalase-positive and coagulase-negative. What is the most likely causative agent?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The most likely causative agent in this case is Staphylococcus epidermidis. This conclusion can be drawn based on the characteristics provided: Gram-positive cocci in clusters, catalase-positive, and coagulase-negative. Staphylococcus epidermidis fits all these criteria.
Explanation of other choices:
- Staphylococcus aureus: Typically coagulase-positive, so it does not match the characteristics given.
- Streptococcus pyogenes: Gram-positive cocci in chains, not clusters. Also, it is catalase-negative.
- Enterococcus faecalis: Gram-positive cocci in pairs or chains, not clusters. Additionally, it is catalase-negative.
Therefore, Staphylococcus epidermidis is the most likely causative agent based on the provided characteristics.