Adherence and growth of coagulase-negative staphylococci on surfaces of intravenous catheters.

Colonization of intravenous catheters by coagulase-negative staphylococci was followed by scanning electron microscopy. Regular sampling of specimens demonstrated adhesion of the staphylococci to the catheter surface followed by cell proliferation, possible breakdown of catheter components, and production of a slimy material covering the bacterial colonies. The implications of these findings with reference to nosocomial infections of prosthetic devices are discussed.