The MLST and DiversiLab analysis were performed on 29 P.?acnes isolates of diverse origins; orthopedic implant infections, deep infections following cardiothoracic surgery, skin, and isolates from perioperative tissue samples from prostate cancer. Subtyping was based on recA, tly, and Tc12S sequences.
The MLST analysis identified 23 sequence types and displayed a superior ability to discriminate P.?acnes isolates compared to DiversiLab and the subtyping. The highest discriminatory index was found when using seven genes. DiversiLab was better able to differentiate the isolates compared to the MLST clonal complexes of sequence types.
Our results suggest that DiversiLab can be useful as a rapid typing tool for initial discrimination of P.?acnes isolates. When better discrimination is required, such as for investigations of the heterogeneity of P.?acnes isolates and its involvement in different pathogenic processes, the present MLST protocol is valuable.