(CoNS)

A type of staph bacteria that commonly live on a person's skin.
(Examples)
- Staphylococcus epidermidis
- Staphylococcus saprophyticus

Coagulase is a bacterial enzyme which brings about the coagulation (clotting) of blood and is produced by disease-causing forms of staphylococcus.

It is harmless when it remains outside the body. However, it can cause infections when present in large amounts, or when present in the bloodstream.
For example, S. epidermidis can be found in the bloodstream by dialysis or with an implanted plastic device that may have been contaminated, causing endocarditis. Patients with urinary tract infections caused by S. saprophyticus usually present with symptomatic cystitis.

Cf. coagulase test

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