Proteus vulgaris is associated with urinary tract infections and wound infections.
Urinary tract infections: Proteus vulgaris is a less frequent but clinically significant uropathogen, particularly in hospitalized or catheterized individuals. It shares many virulence traits with P. mirabilis, including urease activity and biofilm formation, and is often multidrug resistant. Its role in polymicrobial and persistent infections supports its inclusion in broad-spectrum UTI testing (O’Hara et al. 2000)
Wound infections: Proteus vulgaris is less frequently encountered than P. mirabilis but still a relevant opportunistic pathogen in wounds. It has been isolated from chronic ulcers, surgical sites, and polymicrobial infections. Its resistance to multiple antibiotics and potential to form biofilms makes early detection crucial for treatment planning. Differentiation from other Proteusspecies is important due to differences in susceptibility profiles (Bowler et al. 2021)
O’Hara CM, Brenner FW, Miller JM. Classification, identification, and clinical significance of Proteus, Providencia, and Morganella. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2000 Oct;13(4):534-46. doi: 10.1128/CMR.13.4.534. PMID: 11023955; PMCID: PMC88947.
Bowler, P. G., Duerden, B. I., & Armstrong, D. G. (2001). Wound microbiology and associated approaches to wound management. Clinical microbiology reviews, 14(2), 244–269.
