Describe the effectiveness of each of the following antibiot

Describe the effectiveness of each of the following antibiotics with regards to controlling S. epidermidis based on your test results: • penicillin • novobiocin • gentamicin

Solution

S. epidermidis is a gram-positive bacteria and a part of the human skin flora, but it can become pathogenic under some circumstances. It releases a polysaccharide secretion which leads to biofilm formation and decreases the effectiveness of most antibiotic.

Penicillin: It is a narrow spectrum bactericidal antibiotic effective against Gram-positive bacteria. But according to the test results, it is least effective with regards to controlling S. epidermidis. The reason is, S. epidermidis is resistant to penicillin.

Novobiocin: It is a narrow spectrum bacteriostatic antibiotic effective against Gram-positive bacteria. It is effective against controlling S. epidermidis.

Gentamicin: It is a widely used antibiotic effective against many bacterial infections. It is highly effective for controlling S. epidermidis.

Note: Test results will vary according to the test conditions and methods.