What does a staphylococcal infection look like in children? Symptoms of Staphylococcus aureus in children, methods of transmission and treatment of infection. Skin manifestations of Staphylococcus aureus

How to protect your child from staphylococcal infection? This question worries many parents. The development of the disease cannot be completely excluded: Staphylococcus aureus is a “neighbor” bacterium that cannot be avoided. Microbes from the genus Staphylococcus often settle in the body of a newborn from the first hours of life.

Staphylococcus aureus in infants is often stronger than the small organism. It is important to know the rules for preventing staphylococcal infection and to understand what signs accompany the development of the disease. Find out more about staph treatment methods.

Causes

The disease in children develops when an opportunistic microorganism is activated - Staphylococcus aureus. At unfavorable conditions The peaceful neighborhood is disrupted, staphylococcus attacks the small organism. The microbe poses a particular danger to newborns with unformed immunity.

Consequences of infection:

• staphylococcal pneumonia (, sepsis);
• conjunctivitis;
• , laryngotracheitis;
• pustular skin lesions: phlegmon, hidradenitis, folliculitis, pyoderma;
• accompanied by foamy green stools;
• “scalded skin” syndrome in infants;
• inflammatory process around the umbilical wound (omphalitis);
• , nasopharyngitis;
• a noticeable decrease in already weak immunity.

Provoking factors:

• violation of hygiene rules;
• birth of a baby prematurely;
• contact of the little man with sick relatives/hospital staff;
• Not proper care for a newborn;
• lack of strong immunity at an early stage of life;
• pathological course of pregnancy, birth injuries;
• malnutrition in a newborn.

Take note:

• maintaining sterility in a maternity hospital often causes active proliferation of Staphylococcus aureus;
• This seemingly absurd statement has a simple explanation. With thorough disinfection, a strong solution kills all bacteria: both harmful and beneficial;
• At the first contact of a newborn with medical staff, the “neighbor” bacterium quickly penetrates the skin. It is possible that the newborn encountered precisely pathogenic species Staphylococcus aureus;
• microorganisms penetrate the baby’s nasal passages and actively multiply without encountering “rivals.” The baby has practically no immunity, Negative influence Staphylococcus aureus intensifies every day;
• It is no coincidence that most maternity hospitals have revised their sterility policies. Early contact with the mother, allowing visits in the first days of the baby’s life ensures contact of the newborn with various microorganisms;
• It is easier for a baby to gradually adapt to the world around him than, after five to seven days of complete sterility, to encounter bacteria on the street or in an apartment;
• at normal course Do not stay longer with your baby in the maternity hospital due date: the likelihood of “catch” hospital staphylococcus increases.

The danger of staphylococcal infection

Check-in pathogenic flora interferes with beneficial bacteria instead normal development tiny organism. The immune system, which develops in the first hours after birth, is not strengthened. Consequences of weak immune defense - frequent illnesses various kinds, active reproduction of microbes that do not meet resistance.

Microbes from the genus Staphylococcus provoke diseases of the ENT organs, intestines, and affect the mucous membranes of the mouth and eyes. Toxins poison the cells of a small organism and disrupt vital processes. Penetration into the lungs and blood causes serious consequences.

Note! Pediatricians consider staphylococcus one of the most dangerous hospital infections.

Signs and characteristic symptoms

How does staphylococcus manifest in infants? Staphylococcus aureus lives in various parts of the body. The bacterium has adapted well to a moist, warm environment (mucous membranes, internal organs). On the surface of the epidermis, Staphylococcus aureus reproduces no less actively.

The main affected areas due to increased proliferation of pathogenic microbes:

• throat;
• leather;
• stomach, intestines;
• oral mucosa;
• lungs.

Nasopharyngitis and rhinitis

Diseases develop when the nasal mucosa is damaged. There is no general intoxication, a slight inflammatory process is observed. Appetite often decreases and the baby gains weight worse.

Skin infection

Problems arise in regional lymph nodes. When staphylococcus occurs on the skin, skin diseases develop: pemphigus, pyoderma, furunculosis, folliculitis. The penetration of pathogenic bacteria into the mucous membranes causes sore throat and purulent conjunctivitis.

Laryngitis and laryngotracheitis

Children get sick more often after one year. Symptoms: acute onset, high fever, hoarse voice. A dry cough and laryngeal stenosis develop.

Staphylococcal damage to the gastrointestinal tract

The main reason is contaminated breast milk and complementary foods for infants. Intestinal infections caused by the pathogen Staphylococcus aureus are severe.

The baby suffers from vomiting, abdominal pain, weakness develops, and the general state. The temperature rises, cold sweat, the skin turns pale. Bowel movements - up to six times a day, stool is watery, mucus is visible.

Scarlatiniform syndrome

Unpleasant signs appear in any organ affected by staphylococcus. More often, scarlet fever-like symptoms occur on a wound, burnt surface, with abscesses, lymphadenitis, purulent lesions skin in newborns. Infants often develop staphylococcal infection with redness of the mucous membrane, the formation of aphthae on the tongue, and the inner surface of the cheeks.

Pneumonia

A dangerous condition in newborns is often caused by Staphylococcus aureus. The main reason is the complication of acute respiratory infections in infants. Signs: general intoxication, lethargy or overexcitation, pale skin, increasing respiratory failure.

The x-ray shows bullae - cavities in the lungs of different diameters filled with air. With absence timely diagnosis and treatment consequences can be very sad.

Sepsis

Most dangerous option effects of Staphylococcus aureus on various organs. The risk group is newborns and premature babies. The pathogen penetrates through the ears, umbilical wound, skin, and tonsils. The condition quickly worsens, severe fever occurs, the skin becomes covered with pustules and a profuse rash.

Secondary septic foci occur in the throat, nasal passages, and on the oral mucosa. The intestines are affected, the infection penetrates into the lungs and blood. Immediate cleansing of the body from toxins and the introduction of potent anti-staphylococcal drugs and antibiotics are required.

Diagnostics

At the slightest suspicion of staphylococcus, an examination of mother and baby is carried out. Doctor takes into account characteristic features, area of ​​infection spread.

Basic studies and tests for staphylococcus:

• breast milk analysis;
• bacterial culture from the throat;
• analysis of feces and urine.

Important! Until the diagnosis is clarified, the child and mother are isolated in a separate box. More often, the infection is sluggish, the symptoms of intoxication are mild. At small quantity Staphylococcus aureus maintains an elevated subfertile temperature for a long time. Late identification of the pathogen and lack of proper treatment increases the spread of infection, transforming the disease into a more severe form with dangerous complications.

Methods and rules of treatment

How to treat staphylococcus? Therapy for the disease is long-term, using potent drugs. In parallel with medications that suppress the effect of Staphylococcus aureus, it is necessary to take immunomodulatory drugs to increase the body's defenses.

Treatment of staphylococcus in newborns/infants takes place in a hospital. Damage to the nasal passages, throat, intestines is sometimes accompanied by complications, it is required constant control medical staff. It is impossible to carry out some procedures at home that require special knowledge and equipment (droppers, infusion therapy, gastric lavage).

Did the infection occur through breast milk? During the period of treatment, the mother must stop breastfeeding.

The doctor prescribes:

• antibiotics of the cephalosporin or penicillin group. For severe lesions - staphylococcal pneumonia, inflammation meninges requires simultaneous use of two antibiotics;
• products that cleanse the body of toxins. Droppers with saline and glucose are recommended;
• drugs that suppress the activity of Staphylococcus aureus. Doctors administer anti-staphylococcal immunoglobulin and plasma, staphylococcal toxoid;
• multivitamin preparations. It is important for babies to strengthen their immune system. The pediatrician will prescribe a complex suitable for age;
• medications with lactobacilli - Bifidumbacterin, Bifikol - will mitigate the effects of intestinal staphylococcus;
• agents that restore intestinal microflora, compositions for gastric lavage. In case of toxic infections, doctors rinse the stomach, perform rehydration, and infusion therapy;
• medications against fever, body aches. Severe forms Staphylococcal infection (pneumonia, sepsis) is accompanied by an increase in temperature and a pronounced febrile state. Suitable for babies children's Paracetamol, Nurofen, Efferalgan, Ibuprofen. It is forbidden to exceed the dosage or violate the frequency of administration.

Long-term treatment is associated with high resistance of the bacterium to the action of various drugs. Not all antibiotics are approved for infants, it is difficult to choose the right one antibacterial agent with a pronounced effect. Kids have weak immunity. This fact also complicates the treatment of staphylococcus.

The risk of developing staphylococcal infection can only be reduced by integrated approach. Prevention from the first days of life is important.

• mother's observance of hygiene rules, careful care behind the mammary glands;
• hardening the baby;
• choosing the right maternity hospital comfortable conditions, lack of fanaticism in matters of disinfection;
• If you have a cat or dog at home, carefully inspect the animal regularly. The appearance of pustules on the skin is a reason to visit the veterinarian. Sometimes children become infected with staphylococcus, which lives in purulent rashes on the skin of a pet;
• breastfeeding for an optimal period, at least up to 12–18 months;
• bathing the baby with the addition of a decoction of chamomile, string. Medicinal herbs have a weak anti-inflammatory effect;
• strengthening the baby’s immune system, a sufficient amount fresh air during the day;
• massage, gymnastics, previously swimming;
• careful care of the umbilical wound, timely treatment of scratches and diaper rash;
• vitamin therapy in infants;
• timely contact a pediatrician if Staphylococcus aureus activity is suspected.

Consider how you can reduce your risk of staph infection. Look for a good maternity hospital where the newborn’s adaptation will be as calm as possible. Preventive actions spend from the first days of the baby’s life. Strengthen your immune system, observe certain rules for child care, and the baby will get sick less.

The famous doctor Komarovsky talks about staphylococcus in children in the following video:

For children, especially at the age of 2-3 years, the diagnosis of “staphylococcal infection” is one of the most common, but this does not reduce the concerns of parents. It can manifest itself in different ways, since it affects both the skin and internal organs, but not all strains of this pathogenic microorganism are equally dangerous. In what situation does an infection require immediate serious treatment, and when can you do without antibiotics?

What is staphylococcus in children

Among the gram-positive bacteria that cause infectious diseases, staphylococci are among the most common, especially when it comes to diseases affecting young children. They belong to the genus Staphylococcaceae, and received their name thanks to round shape and division in several planes, due to which the bacteria resemble a bunch of grapes (the Greek “kokkos” means “grain”, and “staphylo” means “grapes”). Main characteristics of staphylococcus:

• The diameter of a bacterial cell ranges from 0.6-1.2 microns.
• The danger of staphylococci lies in the production of endotoxins and exotoxins, which negatively affect the functioning of cells in the human body.

Most pathogenic microorganisms of the genus Staphylococcaceae, if the child has a strong immune system, do not provoke severe consequences if staphylococcus was not detected in the child’s blood, which increases the risk of brain damage, nervous system, toxic shock. The high incidence of staphylococcal infections in infants is explained primarily by the absence of immunoglobulin IgA (not synthesized in the first years of life).

How is it transmitted?

Infection predominantly occurs due to a weakening of the body's defenses, which leads to increased morbidity in children with a low immune response. Doctors add non-compliance with hygiene rules to risk factors that can weaken the body’s defenses, viral diseases(ARVI, flu), unhealthy diet. The infectious agent is spread not only by sick people, but also by healthy carriers of pathogenic strains. Especially often, staphylococcal infection is transmitted from persons with pneumonia, open foci of purulent inflammation. Main routes of transmission:

• Airborne - in any public place and even at home, when the wearer talks, sneezes, coughs, and healthy man inhales contaminated air.
• Contact-household - through touching skin to skin (especially dangerous if there are purulent foci of infection on the skin) during handshakes, kisses, hugs, or through common objects: toys, dishes, etc.
• Nutritional (for staphylococcal infection - food) - when consuming contaminated products that have become infected from a sick person or animal, through dirty hands.
• Intrauterine - if a woman became infected with a staphylococcal infection during pregnancy, or already had pathogenic bacteria in her blood in quantities higher than normal, the fetus can become infected during the placenta accreta, during the mother’s delivery.

Kinds

In modern medicine, 27 strains of bacteria of the genus Staphylococcaceae are known, but serious danger for children and adults they represent only 4. When a staphylococcal infection is diagnosed in children, doctors first check whether the pathogen belongs to one of these types:

• Saprophytic (Staphylococcus saprophyticus) - this is not the most common children's staphylococcus, also affecting the mucous membranes, but only the genitourinary system. It is the causative agent of urethritis and cystitis. Does not pose a great danger to children: with proper and timely treatment the disease can be eliminated in a few days.
• Epidermal (Staphylococcus epidermidis) – affects the skin, mucous membranes of the eyes, organs respiratory system. With strong immunity, it is not dangerous for the child: it becomes pathogenic for premature babies or those who have undergone surgery. The activity of this strain leads to the development of conjunctivitis, endocarditis, sepsis, complications postoperative period.
• Hemolytic (Staphylococcus haemolyticus) - named for its ability to hemolysis (destruction), is one of the opportunistic bacteria. Is different increased resistance to antibiotics, provokes purulent inflammatory processes, affecting internal organs (especially genitourinary system) and endocardium ( inner layer membranes of the heart wall). If left untreated, it causes sepsis (systemic inflammation that occurs throughout the body due to blood poisoning).
• Golden (Staphylococcus aureus) - the most pathogenic strain, popularly called “golden death”, the name was given due to the ability to form a pigment of the same shade. It affects most organs and tissues, provoking the onset of purulent inflammatory processes in them. Important biochemical feature This strain is the production of coagulase: an enzyme that stimulates blood plasma clotting.

The greatest danger for infants due to reduced local immunity represents Staphylococcus aureus, which has increased virulence (pathogenicity), resistance (resistance) to antiseptics, high temperatures, and UV radiation. Treatment becomes especially difficult if a methicillin-resistant strain is identified that is resistant to a wide group of antibacterial drugs (beta-lactams: cephalosporin and penicillin series).

Symptoms

The clinical picture of the disease depends on several factors, including the age of the child, the affected area, the state of the immune system, the route of infection, and the strain of the microorganism. Staphylococcus aureus in children provokes severe course more often than other varieties of this bacterium. Based on the nature of the manifestations, doctors divide the symptoms into:

• Local: rashes on the skin and mucous membranes (in the nose) - boils, abscesses; the appearance of purulent mucus from the nasal passages or in the throat, stomatitis.
• General: symptoms of intoxication, which include nausea and vomiting, headaches, fever (low-grade and high), pallor of the skin or hyperemia, general weakness. Manifestations of infection from the gastrointestinal tract (diarrhea, gas formation) cannot be excluded. allergic reactions to toxins produced by bacteria.

It is also important to take into account the stages of development of the disease: early is the development of clinical symptoms just a few hours after infection. At late stage signs of staphylococcus in children will appear only 2-5 days after the infectious agent enters the body. It is difficult to recognize a specific strain of a pathogenic microbe, although they have distinctive features:

• Epidermal - the main blow will be on the skin, so boils, eczema, pyoderma, dermatitis, blepharitis, conjunctivitis will appear.
• Hemolytic – general symptoms resembles manifestations of a sore throat: cough, sore throat, swelling of the tonsils.
• Saprophytic – pain in the lower abdomen, urination problems (clinical picture of cystitis).
• Golden – a severe course of the disease with purulent inflammation in any internal organ. Among the most common conditions caused by this strain in children is catarrhal sore throat, furunculosis, severe intoxication.

In the nose

Sinusitis is the most common condition caused by staphylococcal infection in the nasal passages. Against the background of inflammation and swelling of the mucous membrane, the child experiences difficulty breathing (both unilateral and bilateral), which can cause constant attempts to breathe exclusively through the mouth (in a mild form it is characterized by severe snoring). Additionally there may be following symptoms:

• purulent mucous discharge from the nasal passages;
• impaired sense of smell;
• nasality;
• manifestations of general intoxication and malaise - nausea, weakness, lethargy, loss of appetite;
• increased temperature (acute stage or the beginning of the development of complications).

In the intestines

The active activity of pathogenic bacteria on the walls or in the intestinal cavity leads to a reaction digestive tract in the form of symptoms acute colitis, which then turns into enterocolitis. Against the background of a general deterioration in health, the following will appear:

• loss of appetite;
• nausea, vomiting;
• diarrhea or constipation;
• bloody or purulent inclusions in the stool;
• false urges to bowel movement;
• bursting pain in the abdomen of a wandering nature;
• gas formation, bloating;
• feeling of heaviness in the epigastric zone.

In the mouth

More than half of cases of staphylococcal infection in children (48-78%) are characterized by damage respiratory tract and here with high frequency are developing ulcerative stomatitis, catarrhal tonsillitis ( acute form), tonsillitis. The child develops classic signs of intoxication, the temperature may rise and the following will be observed:

• redness of the throat;
• sore throat;
• redness and swelling of the tonsils;
• whitish sores in the mouth;
• discomfort when swallowing.

In the kidneys

Damage to the genitourinary system by staphylococcal infection in children is rarely observed; local symptoms are mainly like cystitis (inflammation of the bladder) or pyelonephritis (inflammation of the kidneys). The child will complain of pain in the lower abdomen, lower back, and frequent urge to urinate. Parents can observe the baby elevated temperature body, and in the urine there are bloody streaks and particles of pus.

Staphylococcus in children under one year of age

Newborns and infants often receive infection from their mother in utero, or during birth (less often through underwear, the hands of doctors, or care items). Due to the lack of immunoglobulins capable of resisting the pathogenic microorganism, children under one year of age are especially vulnerable to staphylococcus and their disease is severe. It may appear in the form of:

• vesiculopustulosis;
• exfoliative dermatitis (Ritter's disease);
• multiple abscesses;
• epidemic pemphigus (a highly contagious disease).

In most cases, the infectious agent affects the skin and subcutaneous tissue, the disease develops quickly, areas of suppuration appear, which are gradually replaced by multiple abscesses. The main impact falls on the scalp, neck, back and chest, then the inner thighs and buttocks may be affected. Symptoms can be based only on local rashes or accompanied by manifestations of intoxication (with Ritter's disease), high temperature. Possible infection by staphylococcus:

• mucous membranes of the mouth;
• lungs (mainly pneumonia due to viral infection);
• Gastrointestinal tract ( food poisoning, secondary enterocolitis and enteritis).

Diagnostics

Independent determination of the specific causative agent of staphylococcal infection is not possible: all checks are carried out through laboratory testing. Diagnostics can be prescribed not only to the child, but also to the mother, if there is an assumption that the infection came from her. The following methods are mainly used:

• Bacteriological culture is the most effective method identifying the pathogen strain involves examining the mucous membrane of the nasal passages (eyes - with conjunctivitis), pus, feces, skin (wounds on their surface). The material is collected when the disease is at an acute stage, since the activity of pathogenic microorganisms at this moment is increased. Additionally, bacteriological culture helps determine which antibiotics can be used to treat a specific type of staphylococcus.
• Serological analysis blood - a traditional test aimed at identifying antibodies (Ig, immunoglobulins) to a specific pathogen, the presence of which indicates an infectious disease.
• PCR method(polymerase chain reaction) – is prescribed to identify DNA molecules of pathogenic bacteria, is additional diagnostic method.
• Examination of mother's breast milk - if the baby is on natural feeding and were found in feces pathogenic microorganisms in excess quantities, the expressed mother's milk to determine the source of infection. If the result is positive, the baby is transferred to artificial formula.
• Endoscopy, laryngoscopy - if complications occur, when ulcerative colitis develops or pathology covers the larynx. These diagnostic measures are additional.

Treatment of staphylococcus in children

High resistance to chemical exposure And medicines requires taking antibiotics as the basis for the therapeutic regimen, especially if the doctor diagnosed Staphylococcus aureus in the child not only in the feces. Thanks to bacteriological culture, it is possible to determine which specific drugs will effectively act on the causative agent of the disease. Antibiotics are used both orally and by injection. In addition, the treatment regimen for staphylococcal infection includes:

• Local impact for rashes, wounds, pustules (if any), including those located on the mucous membranes of the nose and eyes (not only on the skin). Among aniline dyes, brilliant green (zelenka) is recognized as the most effective. Additionally, alcohol (70%), hydrogen peroxide, and Vishnevsky liniment are used.
• Rinsing the nasal passages, mouth and throat antiseptic solutions are assigned as an element complementary therapy and prevention of new infections. Silver preparations, chlorhexidine, furatsilin, or bacterial lysates(IRS-19, Imudon).
• Taking immunoglobulins, which strengthen the defenses of the child’s body and prevent the spread of infection to chronic stage.
• A course of vitamins and minerals is also for the purpose of generally strengthening the immune system, as support of the main therapeutic course.

In an acute situation, it is necessary to select a bacteriophage that affects a specific strain of bacteria: the doctor comes to this decision if there is no effect from antibiotic therapy. Severe stages of staphylococcal infection may also include surgical intervention, in which sanitation (cleansing) of the focus of purulent inflammation is performed, and blood transfusion (blood and plasma transfusion) in case of generalized infection. After recovery, it is important to pay attention to preventive measures.

Antibiotics

Self-medication is not recommended at any stage of the disease, especially with regard to the selection of antibacterial therapy, which is necessary when the entire body is affected by an infection or a severe local course. The doctor should prescribe specific tablets (injection antibiotics are used mainly in hospitals) after bacteriological culture. Mostly penicillin drugs are used in children, and for some strains drugs from the macrolide, cephalosporin, and lincosamide groups are indicated. Most prescribed antibiotics:

• Clarithromycin is a macrolide based on the substance of the same name, prescribed for staphylococcal infections of the respiratory system and skin, and has a bactericidal and bacteriostatic effect. Not recommended for heart disease, kidney disease, or sensitivity to macrolides. The dose is selected individually, for children under 12 years of age - no more than 15 mg/kg per day (divided by 2 times). The disadvantage of the drug is a large number of adverse reactions (from rash to anaphylactic shock).
• Fuzidin is a reserve antibiotic based on fusidic acid. It is bacteriostatic, affects penicillin-resistant strains, and is prescribed for sepsis, endocarditis, pneumonia, skin and soft tissue infections. Children are given in the form of a suspension, the dose is calculated individually by weight. The drug is not used for hyperprothombinemia or liver failure. May provoke adverse reactions from the gastrointestinal tract.

Folk remedies

If the infectious disease is at an initial stage of development and the manifestations are weak, traditional medicine recipes can be introduced into the therapeutic course. Mostly these are topical products (for rinsing and washing), or general restoratives, which only complement the main treatment regimen and do not replace it. Some simple recipes:

• Boil 1 tsp in a water bath. aspen bark in a glass of water (10 minutes), let it brew for half an hour. Take 1 tbsp. l. 3 r/day for 2 weeks.
• Combine 200 g cranberries and 100 g honey, mix well. Let it brew overnight in the refrigerator, give the child 50 g in the morning and evening. Duration of treatment – ​​2 weeks.
• For skin lesions, boil 500 g of string herb in 2 liters of water, leave for 2-3 hours. Bath the baby in the decoction (dilute warm water to get a bath) before bed for 10-15 minutes. Treatment is carried out until complete recovery.

Photo of staphylococcus in a baby

Video

Even in the maternity hospital, mothers hear about a threatening disease that creates health problems in newborns. The type of bacteria that causes it got its name due to its spherical or oblong shape cells arranged in clusters. From Greek kokkas is translated as “grain”, staphylos - “bunch”. Are these bacteria really that dangerous?

general information

The name of the bacteria coincides with the designation of the infectious and a disease dangerous to the health of children. It does not threaten children with a sufficient level of immunity. However, as soon as the protective forces weaken, the infection begins to actively develop.

Staphylococcus bacteria are capable of provoke inflammation of the respiratory tract. Staphylococcal pneumonia can develop even before discharge from the hospital. Severe intoxication of the microorganism occurs.

In combination with pneumonia, infection causes circulatory and respiratory system problems. Staphylococcal enterocolitis can be fatal.

How staphylococcus is transmitted in children, how the symptoms of the infection manifest themselves and how it can be cured, we will discuss below.

Causes

The only cause of staphylococcal infection is violation of local immunity. Carriers of harmful bacteria are both sick and completely healthy people.

And bacteria become harmful only when the child’s body’s defense mechanisms have begun to fail or are not yet strong enough.

The development of infection can be triggered by:

• Premature birth of an underweight child.
• Failure to comply with the rules of care for newborns.
• Pathologies during the gestation period, when infection occurs at the stage of fetal development.
• Infection during breastfeeding from a mother infected with staphylococcus.

Types of disease

Not all members of the staphylococcal family pose a threat children's health . Some of them coexist quite well in body fluids and tissues. Three types of staphylococcus are considered pathogenic:

• Saprophytic. The least dangerous for humans, and even more so for children. It most often affects the genitourinary system. At proper treatment You can get rid of the microbe in a few days.
• Epidermal(epidermic) staphylococcus in children. Found on all areas of the skin and mucous membrane of the nose, eyes, oral cavity. For healthy child does not pose a danger and is even considered normal if the child feels well. At risk are babies who were born prematurely, weakened babies, and patients after surgery.
• Golden. Poses the greatest danger. This is the most insidious of microorganisms. It can be found on the surface of the skin, in the mouth, and in feces. If the child is healthy, then the body copes with these bacteria on its own.

The cunning of a microorganism is associated with its ability to adapt to different conditions.

Staphylococcus aureus is not afraid of low and high temperatures. It can withstand even +80 degrees. It adapts to the effects of most antiseptics and antibiotics, so treatment with the latter is often ineffective. Resistant to hydrogen peroxide, ethyl alcohol, sodium chloride.

About the signs, symptoms and treatment of Staphylococcus aureus in children, watch the video of Dr. Komarovsky:

There are two forms of the disease:

• Early Symptoms appear a few hours after the bacteria enters the child’s body.
• Late. It makes itself known only after 3-5 days.

Symptoms and general signs

Staphylococcal infection is indicated by:

If the disease is not diagnosed in time, the infection can affect internal organs.

Manifestations of defeat

The affected organs differ depending on the method of infection penetration into the body. Most often the throat, nose and intestines are at risk. Different forms of staphylococcus in a child have their own specific symptoms:

• in the intestines: diarrhea, constipation, heaviness and abdominal pain, bloating, pus, mucus in the stool;
• in the nose: swelling and difficulty breathing, purulent discharge, intoxication of the body;
• in the mouth and throat: swelling and redness of the tonsils, sore throat, rashes on the surface of the oral mucosa, manifestations of intoxication.

How is it carried out? Quick help for your baby!

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How to recognize a disease in a child

Parents cannot diagnose the disease. Their task is to monitor the child’s condition and reactions. The intensity and nature of the infection is influenced by:

• Age. Newborns suffer from staphylococcal infections more often, and the consequences are much more serious.
• The way bacteria enter the body. If staphylococcus is carried with dust particles, this can lead to respiratory tract infection. If the bacteria enters the body through food, the intestines and throat will be affected.
• When your baby is often sick, and his parents know that he is weakened the immune system, it makes sense to worry when suspicious symptoms appear.

You cannot self-medicate. It is necessary to consult a doctor who will examine the child and give a referral for tests.

Diagnostic measures

Only laboratory test results will be able to confirm that the symptoms are caused by a staphylococcal infection. If the amount of staphylococcus in the analysis does not exceed the norm, and there are no symptoms of infection, then there is nothing to worry about.

To determine the norm, a number of studies are carried out:

If the pathology process has gone too far, for example, with colitis caused by staphylococcus, endoscopic examination may be necessary to assess the condition of the colon. For staphylococcus that has affected the throat and has descended to the larynx, laryngoscopy is performed. Therapy may include:

In rare cases, in case of severe infection, blood and plasma transfusions are used.. Surgery cannot be ruled out.

When treating a child, it is important to follow the rules of hygiene:

• The child's skin should be dry and clean, nails should be trimmed, and underwear should be fresh.
• All household items, dishes, and clothing used by the child must be disinfected.

It is not always necessary to treat staphylococcus in a child - watch the video on this topic:

Prevention

The unformed and weakened organism of infants is most susceptible to infection by staphylococcus, which is why its symptoms appear. It is easier for older children to fight off bacteria, but only if they are healthy. Preventive measures to strengthen defense mechanisms:

• Proper nutrition, excluding fast foods, unhealthy fats, sweets.
• Active lifestyle - swimming, athletics, gymnastics, regular walks in the fresh air.
• Compliance with the rules of personal hygiene - regular water treatments, proper oral care, the habit of washing your hands after a walk or visiting public places.
• Protecting the baby from stress: problems in the family, nervousness of adults.

These activities will help avoid attacks harmful bacteria and undesirable consequences.

Staphylococcal infection dangerous for both newborns and older children. Staphylococcus aureus is especially dangerous. Symptoms of the disease manifest themselves differently depending on the method of penetration of dangerous bacteria. But a healthy child’s body with a strong immune system is not at risk of infection.

To prevent staphylococcal infection in infants, expectant mothers need to take care of their health and promptly inform doctors about changes in the baby’s behavior. Older children need to be taught the rules of hygiene, balanced diet And active image life.

In contact with

Bacterial infections occur quite often in children, because microscopic single-celled organisms live and reproduce in close proximity to people. The human body is filled with billions of different bacteria. Some are beneficial, others cause enormous harm to health.

Many parents are horrified to learn that staphylococcus has been detected in their child’s tests. Numerous health problems in children are associated with this type of bacteria. Is proximity to staphylococci dangerous to the health of children?

What is staphylococcus?

Staphylococcus is a non-motile, spherical bacterium that is part of normal microflora intestines, mucous membranes, skin in adults and children. From the total number of microorganisms of the genus Staphylococcus, pathogenic and opportunistic bacteria are distinguished.

Varieties of staphylococcus

In his life, a person most often encounters the following types of Staphylococcus:

• Staphylococcus aureus (golden) is the most aggressive of all microorganisms studied to date, causing resistant forms of diseases skin, intestines, circulatory system, brain and spinal cord;
• Staphylococcus epidermidis (epidermal) - is the cause of suppuration of wounds, conjunctivitis, heart disease, and genitourinary system;
• Staphylococcus haemolyticus (hemolytic) – is the cause purulent abscesses, affects the skin, can provoke sepsis;
• Staphylococcus saprophyticus (saprophytic) – provokes diseases of the genitourinary system.

Staphylococcus lives on the skin, in the intestines, and on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity in 80% of people in a latent state; it can pose a danger only under favorable conditions for reproduction, which entails acute manifestation staphylococcal infection.

Factors in the development of staphylococcal infections on the skin

According to medical statistics, staphylococcal infections on the skin of children appear much more often compared to others. negative consequences proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms.

Rapid damage to areas of the skin and mucous membranes is promoted by:

• weak immunity of the child;
• viral infections (herpes, ARVI, HIV, influenza, mumps, measles);
• non-compliance with rules for caring for small children (lack of sanitary living conditions).

Routes of infection with staphylococcal infection

Staphylococcus is transmitted from person to person, but causes diseases of a specific etiology only if the child:

• suffers from diseases that undermine the body’s immune defense;
• has an innate predisposition to weak immunity;
• is on artificial feeding;
• the child is not taught to observe the rules of personal hygiene.

Staphylococcus cannot be brought from the street; bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus constantly surround people, since they live in the body of almost every person. The manifestation of the negative properties of these bacteria is associated with satisfactory condition health of both adults and children and the unhealthy lifestyle that they prefer.

Risk group for staphylococcal infection

Staphylococcal skin infection is more of a health problem:

• newborn children – contact with the baby’s skin of staphylococci in the environment maternity ward may cause prolonged treatment;
• children of different age group with weakened immune systems, who are on inpatient treatment in hospital settings.

The hospital walls are filled bacterial microflora, resistant to antibacterial drugs, so the treatment of “hospital” staphylococci causes difficulties, while “home” ones are more susceptible to drug suppression.

How does staphylococcus appear on the skin?

Cutaneous staphylococcus refers to all strains of bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus that can infect the skin of a child’s body. Children of any age group are prone to manifestations of staphylococcal infections on the skin. The problem of frequent skin staphylococcal resistant diseases lies in the imperfection of the processes of formation of the immune reserves of the child’s body at different stages of its development.

The spread of staphylococcal infection on the skin can manifest itself in several forms inflammatory in nature(see photo below):

Defeat sweat glands, accompanied by deep abscesses, is most often observed in infants. The causative agent of this form of the disease is often Staphylococcus aureus. Numerous papules the size of a millet grain, filled with milky purulent contents, form on the child’s skin. Around each papule, the border of skin hyperemia is clearly visible. Papules are localized on the head, back, neck, and chest.

Finger's pseudofurunculosis

A complication of vesiculopustulosis is multiple abscesses on the child’s body in the buttocks, head, and back. Together excretory ducts sweat glands form ulcers with a diameter of 1-2 cm, filled with thick purulent contents.

Epidemic pemphigus

It is characterized by the formation of a rash on the skin of infants, turning into fluid-filled blisters. As the disease develops, the filling of the vesicles is supplemented with purulent contents. Extraction of pus occurs through spontaneous bursting of the vesicles, which is one of the factors in the rapid spread of infection among certain group of people. The affected areas of the skin heal without the formation of scars on the skin.

It is a type of pemphigus. On the child’s body, under the influence of the proliferation of staphylococcus, blisters of large diameter are formed; after bursting, serous fluid flows out of them, and large areas of damaged, bare epidermis form in place of the blisters.

Phlegmon

The formation of one or several large-diameter purulent foci on the lower back or in the sacral area. The accumulation of pus is explained by staphylococcal damage to the subcutaneous fat layer.

Mastitis

Staphylococcus tends to infect the mammary glands. A swelling forms around the nipple, which subsequently develops into a mastitis-like tumor with the subsequent formation of purulent phlegmon.

Pyoderma

Staphylococcus aureus manifests itself in this form of the disease. Appear on the child's face small spots pink in color, after which a blistering rash similar to herpes develops in their place. After the bubbles burst, crusts form on the skin. Scabs are localized on the face in the area of ​​the nasolabial triangle.

Barley

Tumor of the upper or lower eyelid. Formed under the influence of Staphylococcus aureus. The cause is inflammation sebaceous glands eyelids or eyelash roots.

Furunculosis

Formation of boils (boils) on the child’s skin. Ulcers are formed when the hair follicles become inflamed. The sizes of boils can vary. In this way, staphylococcus can manifest itself on the arms, buttocks, back, and in the perineal area.

Conjunctivitis

Damage to the conjunctiva of the eye, accompanied by purulent discharge. The cause most often is Staphylococcus aureus.

Folliculitis

Staphylococcus on the head causes inflammation of the hair follicles with the subsequent formation of numerous ulcers.

Symptoms of staphylococcal infection

The proximity of children to bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus does not manifest itself in any way. If the child’s immune system does not react in any way to bacteria, there is no reason to worry.

The attention of parents should be specifically directed to the child if skin lesions (boils, blisters, small rashes, scabs) are accompanied by symptoms of the development of staphylococcal infection, namely:

• increased body temperature;
• fever;
• the formation of purulent infiltrates;
• lethargy;
• lack of appetite;
• stool disorder.

Since staphylococci are capable of secreting toxins and enzymes that poison the body, even with minor bacterial damage to the skin, nausea and vomiting may occur.

The manifestation of the above signs of the disease together signals the exacerbation phase into which staphylococcus has passed in children. Symptoms acute course infections require additional research the child’s body in order to determine the pathogen and the reasons contributing to its reproduction.

Diagnostic measures for staphylococcal infection

For the purpose of setting correct diagnosis specialists study not only skin rash, staphylococcus is detected in urine, feces, and blood tests.

Often, in order to determine the pathogen, doctors resort to such methods of studying biological material as:

• bacterial culture;
• bacterioscopy;
• enzyme immunoassay blood test;
• polymerase chain reaction;
• latex agglutination reaction.

Drug therapy for Staphylococcus

Treatment of staphylococcal infection on a child’s skin involves:

• harmful drug effects on pathogenic microorganisms;
• therapy and prevention concomitant diseases, capable of provoking the proliferation of staphylococcus;
• strengthening the immune system.

How can you cure Staphylococcus aureus on a child’s skin? Drug therapy involves the prescription of local and systemic antibacterial drugs. Using the results of an analysis of the sensitivity of identified staphylococci to antibiotics, doctors can select effective treatments for the patient and give a positive prognosis for recovery.

Staphylococcus on the skin of a child should be treated under the supervision of the attending physician. If the drugs used do not give positive results, the doctor makes adjustments to the patient’s prescriptions.

If you start staphylococcus on the skin, treatment of the disease can be protracted. The duration of therapy depends on the extent of the affected skin areas and averages 1-3 months.

Prevention of staphylococcal skin lesions

Staphylococcal infection is dangerous for children with weak immune reserves of the body, therefore for preventive purposes Parents must first of all provide the child with living conditions that help strengthen the immune system, namely:

• healthy eating;
• adherence to daily routine;
• walks in the open air;
• hardening;
• reduction of psychological stress;
• compliance with personal hygiene rules.

Ekaterina Morozova is a mother of many children, editor of the “Children” section in Colady magazine

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Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium that, unlike many prokaryotes, has a golden color, which is the causative agent of purulent-pathological processes in the human body.

Children are most susceptible to infection with Staphylococcus aureus, so today we will talk about the causes of diseases resulting from infection, symptoms and consequences of Staphylococcus aureus for children.

Causes of the disease, how is it transmitted?

• Staphylococcus aureus is transmitted as by airborne droplets , so through food(contaminated meat, eggs, dairy products, cakes, cream pies) or household items.
• Staphylococcus aureus can also enter the child’s body through microtrauma of the skin or mucous membranes respiratory tract.

In most cases, infection with Staphylococcus aureus occurs in medical institutions.

Imbalance of intestinal microflora, weakened immune system, autoinfections – the main causes of infection with Staphylococcus aureus. Those at greatest risk of infection are premature babies and immunocompromised children .

During childbirth , through wounds or scratches, as well as through breast milk the mother can infect the child. If bacteria enter the mother's body through cracks in the nipples, this can lead to purulent mastitis she has.

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Staphylococcus aureus in children, if not treated in time, can cause diseases such as osteomyelitis, meningitis, pneumonia, infectious-toxic shock, sepsis, endocarditis and etc.

Degrees in children - what is carriage of Staphylococcus aureus?

There are two stages of infection with Staphylococcus aureus in children.

• On early stage When several hours have passed since infection, the disease is characterized by lethargy, diarrhea, high fever, vomiting, and lack of appetite.
• Late form The disease does not appear immediately, but after 3-5 days. In this case, the symptoms of Staphylococcus aureus in children are skin lesions(boils, purulent wounds), infection of internal organs and blood.

Often visible manifestations of the disease are interpreted in various shapes. They may appear as pinpoint rash or ulcers, single pustules or evenly cover the skin. Therefore, such symptoms are often confused with diaper dermatitis and are not attributed to infection.

Sometimes the disease is asymptomatic , and it can only be identified through laboratory research. In this case, the causative agent of infectious diseases remains in the child’s body and is periodically released into environment. This manifestation of the disease is called carriage of Staphylococcus aureus , and this carriage is not treated with any antibiotics.

If there are no visible symptoms of Staphylococcus aureus and the child does not show concern, then treatment medicines is postponed, and parents are closely involved strengthening the child's immunity.

The situation is much more serious with the active manifestation of the disease. At the slightest suspicion of illness, you should immediately go to the hospital. The mother and child are hospitalized, which is accompanied by drug treatment.

Only with strict compliance with all doctor’s instructions You can get rid of the infection and avoid relapse of the disease!

Signs and symptoms. How is the analysis performed?

There are many signs of Staphylococcus aureus in newborns and preschool children. These are:

• Ritter's disease (scalded skin syndrome). In this case, a rash or area of ​​inflamed skin with clear boundaries appears on the skin.
• Staphylococcal pneumonia. Pneumonia caused by staphylococcal infection is much more severe than in other cases. Observed severe shortness of breath, pronounced intoxication, chest pain present.
• Cellulitis and abscesses. Deep lesions subcutaneous tissue followed by purulent melting. With an abscess, the inflammation has the shape of a capsule, which prevents the process from spreading further. Cellulitis is a more serious form, because the purulent inflammatory process further expands throughout the tissues.
• Pyoderma– damage to the skin in the area where hair emerges from the surface of the skin. The appearance of an abscess in the area of ​​hair growth, when an abscess forms around the hair (folliculitis), indicates a superficial lesion. With more serious skin lesions, not only inflammation of the hair follicle develops, but also the surrounding tissues (furuncle), as well as inflammation the whole group hair follicles (carbuncle).
• Brain abscess or purulent meningitis may develop due to the appearance of carbuncles and boils on the face, because the blood circulation on the face is specific and staphylococcus can get into the brain.
• Osteomyelitis. In 95% of cases, purulent inflammation bone marrow occurs due to staphylococcal infection.
• Sepsis– when a huge number of staphylococcal bacteria are spread by blood throughout the body, where secondary foci of infection subsequently occur, manifesting themselves in internal organs.
• Endocarditis– heart disease, which ends in death in 60% of cases. Occurs as a result of damage by staphylococcus to the inner lining and valves of the heart.
• Toxic shock. A large number of aggressive toxins entering the blood cause fever, an immediate drop in blood pressure, headache, vomiting, pain in the abdominal cavity, disturbance of consciousness. At food toxicosis the disease manifests itself 2-6 hours after eating.

To identify the causative agent of the disease, you need to donate analysis of blood and/or biological fluid from wounds for Staphylococcus aureus. After conducting research in laboratories and testing for susceptibility to antibiotics, the doctor prescribes antibiotics that can kill staphylococci.

What are the consequences and why is it dangerous?

Staphylococcal infection can affect any organ. The consequences of Staphylococcus aureus are unpredictable, because. It is this type of staphylococcus that can cause diseases that in the future, if not treated in time, can become chronic.

According to statistics, already on the third day, 99% of newborn babies have staphylococcus bacteria, both inside the baby’s body and on the surface of the skin. At strong immunity this bacterium coexists peacefully with other bacteria in the body.

• Most often staphylococcus affects the nasopharynx, brain, skin, intestines, lungs.
• Staphylococcus aureus is dangerous because untimely treatment advanced disease can be fatal.
• At food poisoning and superficial manifestations on the skin, you need to sound the alarm and contact qualified specialists, and not wait until the staphylococcal infection affects the internal organs and will take on a septic form, i.e. - blood poisoning.

To protect your newborn as much as possible from infection with Staphylococcus aureus:

• Support your child's immunity;
• Observe the rules of personal hygiene;
• Keep bottles, pacifiers, spoons, other feeding utensils, toys and household items clean.

The website warns: self-medication can harm your baby’s health! The diagnosis should only be made by a doctor after an examination. Therefore, if you notice symptoms of Staphylococcus aureus in a child, be sure to consult a specialist!