Hemagglutinating and adherence properties of Staphylococcus saprophyticus: epidemiology and virulence in experimental urinary tract infection of rats.

We studied hemagglutinating and adherence properties in Staphylococcus saprophyticus isolates originating from symptomatic urinary tract infections. 12/13 (92%) of strains adhered to Hep cells and 11/13 (85%) were able to agglutinate sheep erythrocytes. Adherence properties differed markedly between strains (P less than 0.0001). Two strains, one hemagglutinating and adherent and one negative for both properties were chosen for experimental urinary tract infections. Results indicate that presence of the hemagglutinin favours colonization of kidney tissue.