What to do if you have staphylococcus. Cutaneous staphylococcus. Features of Staphylococcus aureus include

At severe symptoms purulent skin lesions in adults and children, doctors do not rule out Staphylococcus aureus, which requires urgent treatment. This dangerous infection can be the main cause of many diseases internal organs and systems. If the main question arises, how to get rid of Staphylococcus aureus, you need to contact a competent specialist. IN otherwise More and more healthy tissue will be involved in the pathological process.

What is Staphylococcus aureus

This simple golden-colored infection can provoke such dangerous diseases as furunculosis, sepsis, pneumonia, tonsillitis, meningitis, abscess, panaritium, tonsillitis, osteomyelitis. The microbe is localized on the mucous membranes and the upper layer of the epidermis, and is capable of penetrating deep into healthy tissues. It is not easy to cure Staphylococcus aureus, since the pathogenic microorganism is resistant to environmental factors, antibacterial drugs. Treatment of inflammatory diseases involving staphylococcus requires an integrated approach.

If purulent inflammation occurs, it is necessary to be tested for Staphylococcus aureus. The occurrence of such an infection in the body is possible in childhood and adulthood; with inflammation of the membranes, it is clearly impossible to do without additional antibiotics. Microbes release toxins, thereby causing inflammation. The body suffers from symptoms acute intoxication, and this condition rapidly progresses as the pathogenic flora grows.

How is it transmitted?

If staphylococcus from the nasopharynx penetrates into the lungs through the bloodstream, pneumonia rapidly develops. To exclude the appearance of purulent foci, it is necessary to find out in advance how a dangerous infection is transmitted to a healthy body. There are several ways of transmitting the microbe - oral, airborne droplets or household contact. Relapse is often preceded by weakened immunity, long-term illness with taking strong medications. Germs penetrate in different ways Therefore, the task of parents is to take responsibility for their health and the health of their own children.

Symptoms

The attending physician explains in detail what the stage of relapse with staphylococcus may look like. Symptoms increased activity spherical bacteria completely depend on the suspected focus of pathology, frightening in its intensity. Pathogenic microbes produce enzymes that cause numerous purulent inflammations. The source of pathology can be identified clinically and laboratory, but the following symptoms suggest a serious illness:

When the skin is affected, extensive spots are observed in skin folds and small rash (pseudofurunculosis), blisters with fluid (vesiculopustulosis), open wounds like burns (Ritter's disease), a cavity with purulent masses (abscess) and a violation of the subcutaneous tissue (cellulitis).
Staphylococcal infection in the throat contributes to the development of purulent sore throat, laryngitis and pharyngitis. The patient complains of dry mucous membranes and an acute attack of pain when swallowing, which only intensifies in the absence of timely response measures. Additionally, there is a high body temperature, and visible inflammation of the tonsils can be detected.
Respiratory tract diseases are accompanied by the presence of pathogenic bacteria in the nose. Habitual breathing is immediately disrupted, congestion and a dry paroxysmal cough are observed. Rhinitis with discharge of pus is the first sign of how Staphylococcus aureus manifests itself in the nose.
When staphylococcus produces in the mouth, the lesion becomes the mucous membrane oral cavity. Painful ulcers appear in its structure, and when bacteria multiply clinical picture getting worse. Staphylococcus immediately affects the mucous membranes, so you need to pay attention to this sign of the disease first.
When the eyes are affected, it develops acute conjunctivitis, supplemented by increased swelling and soreness of the eyelids, lacrimation, photophobia. TO serious complications staphylococcal infection Such a clinical picture may include a sharp decrease in vision and a spasm of accommodation.
If Staphylococcus aureus infects the system urinary tract, the patient complains of frequent urination, pain when going to the toilet, lower back pain, and the appearance of blood in the body fluid. Alternatively, pyelonephritis, cystitis or urethritis develop with acute symptoms.
When the central nervous system is damaged, the patient’s body temperature rises sharply, and pronounced signs of intoxication of the body are observed. These include attacks of vomiting, partial dehydration, skin rash and migraine attacks. As a complication, doctors identify progressive meningitis and brain abscess.

In adults

Availability focal infection The skin needs to be treated in a timely manner, otherwise the dermis changes its structure, and the pathological process spreads to healthy organs and systems. Common symptoms of intoxication are severe signs of dyspepsia, vomiting, severe attacks migraine, skin rashes and high temperature. Presence skin infections complemented by hyperemia of the upper layer of the epidermis, itching and swelling. If internal contamination and spread of infection is observed, the clinical picture becomes more complicated and requires immediate medical attention.

Symptoms in children

Infection due to abnormal functioning of the immune system is accompanied by high body temperature, disruption of intestinal microflora and common features poisoning of the body. With stable immunity, carriage of Staphylococcus aureus is asymptomatic. The patient and his parents may not be aware of the localization of the pathogenic flora, but find out by chance - during a routine medical examination.

Causes

Frequent causative agents of dangerous diseases in childhood and adulthood are Staphylococcus aureus, which in most cases affects the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx and skin. Before treating a characteristic illness, it is important to identify the etiology of the pathological process. The extremely undesirable penetration of Staphylococcus aureus is preceded by the following pathogenic factors:

violation of personal hygiene rules;
penetration of infection due to food poisoning (poor quality food);
failure to comply with aseptic rules when working with medical instruments;
applying piercings and tattoos to the body;
dysbacteriosis;
weakened immune system;
the result of infection from the environment;
for skin lesions of thermal or mechanical origin;
use of special devices for internal installation.

Diagnostics

A characteristic microbe provokes inflammation when the immune system is weakened, but Staphylococcus aureus can only be detected laboratory methods. The following measures implemented in a hospital setting will help to cope with pathogenic pathogens:

standard coagulase test in vitro;
latex agglutination;
general tests blood, urine, feces;
Widal agglutination reaction;
sowing of biological material;
biochemical analysis blood;
swab from the eyelid if conjunctivitis is suspected.

Culture for Staphylococcus aureus

Biological material More often it is a nasal or throat swab for laboratory testing. It fights in adult patients or infants if the presence of golden strains is suspected in the body. After this, the doctor observes the natural growth of pathogenic flora (if any) for a certain time interval in laboratory conditions, as close as possible to natural ones. If bacteria are not detected during the specified period, this is normal, and the patient is considered healthy. Characteristic manifestations The disease is first diagnosed and then treated.

Treatment

The spread of signs of the disease must be treated in a timely manner using mainly conservative methods. Toxic microbes are capable of developing resistance to antibiotics, so it is necessary A complex approach to a health problem, including several at once pharmacological groups. The following medications will help overcome resistant strains:

staphylococcal toxoid;
bacteriophages;
antistaphylococcal immunoglobulin;
bacterial lysates;
staphylococcal vaccine;
aloe preparations;
immunoglobulin preparation;
chlorophyllipt solution.

Ointment

It is recommended to treat the affected membrane of the nasopharynx medicinal ointments with antibiotics mupirocin. This pharmacological prescription is appropriate for skin diseases, boils, and staphylococcal sepsis. In severe cases of the characteristic illness, such local medicines are characterized by low efficiency and mediocre action. At chronic infection The following medications are appropriate for external use: Levomekol, Baneocin, methyluracil ointment.

Medicine

Staphylococcus aureus can infect newborns, so symptomatic treatment small child must be carried out in a timely manner. The first step is to determine where staphylococci live, what are the features of the pathological process, and then individually determine the features intensive care. To ensure that the treatment of Staphylococcus aureus is as productive as possible, effective medicines from acute and chronic diseases are presented below.

Bacteriophage

This pharmacological agents with viruses that can infect staphylococcus. After penetration into the body, the resistance of pathogenic flora is reduced. Viruses have been collected into the composition of medical preparations, for example, the staphylococcal bacteriophage, produced in the form of a solution, suppositories, ointments or tablets for oral use, has proven itself well. In the affected organism it exhibits persistent antibacterial effect, productively destroys epidermal staphylococci.

Antibiotics

Bacteria staphylococcus aureus can be destroyed with properly selected antibiotics. Such pharmacological prescription should not be unauthorized, especially when it comes to the health of the child. Otherwise, among potential complications, doctors identify pneumonia, brain abscess, staphylococcal sepsis and others fatal diagnoses. If found in the body staphylococcus aureus, for a patient at any age it should not be a shock to prescribe antibacterial therapy. This:

Amoxiclav is a member of the penicillin group, to which staphylococci demonstrate particular sensitivity. It is recommended to take 1 tablet orally 3 times a day for 7-10 days.
Methicillin, Oxacillin are representatives of semi-synthetic penicillins, intended for oral use for 7 days, according to the instructions.
Clarithromycin is a semisynthetic broad-spectrum macrolide antibiotic. Take 1 capsule twice a day.
Vancomycin is a tricyclic antibiotic from the group of glycopeptides, therapeutic effect which is ensured by inhibition of the biosynthesis of the staphylococcal cell wall.
Lincomycin is a representative of the lincomycin group, which is available in the form of a bitter white powder, taken orally for 5-7 days.

Consequences

The characteristic microbe is especially dangerous for the younger generation, infants. The child’s immunity is weakened, and among potential health complications, doctors identify the following diagnoses:

coma;
infectious-toxic shock;
death;
sepsis;
meningitis.

Prognosis and prevention

Clinical outcome completely depends on the severity of the characteristic illness, requires a timely response from the patient to initial symptoms. On early stage the disease can be completely cured, but in the later stages the death of the clinical patient cannot be ruled out. To avoid a dangerous relapse, it is important to avoid contact with infected people in every possible way, carefully observe personal hygiene rules and adhere to other preventive measures. After past infection acquired immunity is not formed.

Photo of staphylococcal infection on the skin

Video

Staphylococcus is a round-shaped gram-positive bacteria that inhabits the skin and mucous membranes of humans.

The danger of staphylococci is that they produce toxins that disrupt the normal functioning of cells.

Staphylococcus: causes and development factors

In order to understand the causes of staphylococcal infection, it is necessary to know the ways through which bacteria can enter the human body. The infection can spread through airborne droplets, household and foodborne routes. You can become infected with staphylococcus due to dirty hands or through non-sterile medical instruments. People often become infected with staphylococcus in hospitals. At the same time, the likelihood of infection with staphylococcus increases if you use catheters, intravenous feeding devices, hemodialysis and artificial ventilation. Infection also often occurs during piercing and tattooing if the procedures are performed without proper compliance with all sanitary standards.

Weakened immunity is a favorable factor for the spread of staphylococcal infection. Concomitant infections or can contribute to the development of staphylococcal infection.

Types of disease: classification of staphylococcal infection

There are three most common types of staphylococcus, which can cause enormous damage to the human body. These are saprophytic, epidermal and Staphylococcus aureus.

Saprophytic staphylococcus It most often occurs in women and causes inflammation of the bladder (cystitis). Saprophytic staphylococcus is located in the mucous membranes of the urethra and in the skin of the genitals.
Staphylococcus epidermidis can inhabit any areas of the skin and mucous membranes. If it enters the bloodstream, Staphylococcus epidermidis can lead to inflammation of the endocardium.
Staphylococcus aureus- This is the most common and dangerous species for humans. The bacterium can infect any organs and tissues, causing the development of more than 100 inflammatory diseases. Staphylococcus aureus can withstand high temperatures and the action of a number of chemical agents, including 100% ethyl alcohol.

Symptoms of staphylococcus: how the disease manifests itself

Symptoms are quite varied and depend on the type of bacterium and the disease provoked by the pathogenic action of staphylococcus.

When the skin is damaged, characteristic purulent lesions appear (, etc.). Damage to bones and joints leads to the development of arthritis and osteomyelitis. When the heart muscle is damaged, it develops; respiratory system- And ; throat -; gastrointestinal tract- and/or ; in case of brain damage - staphylococcal.

Characteristic of staphylococcal infection intoxication syndrome(fever, vomiting, headache, asthenia), the formation of an inflammatory purulent focus, but the development of serous-hemorrhagic, fibrinous changes is also possible.

Symptoms of a generalized process with multiple foci of inflammation, infectious-toxic shock are:

The presence of widespread red spotty rashes up to diffuse erythema of the skin.
High body temperature (38.9°C and above).
Hyperkeratosis (peeling of the skin) 1-2 weeks after the onset of the disease, most pronounced on the feet and palms.
Signs of multiple organ dysfunction: disorders of the digestive system (diarrhea, vomiting), hematological disorders (thrombocytopenia, neutropenia), muscle pain, hepatic-renal failure.
Arterial hypotension with a drop in systolic value below 50% of the age norm, orthostatic collapse, accompanied by a decrease in diastolic value to 15 mm Hg. and depression of consciousness.

Ritter's exfoliative dermatitis:

Predominantly affecting children in the first months of life.
Detachment of the epidermis even externally healthy skin after pressing with a finger (Nikolsky's symptom).
Skin changes in the form of painful areas of redness that appear around the umbilical remnant, nose, mouth, replaced after 24-48 hours by large blisters (bullas), after opening of which the eroded surface of the dermis is exposed.
At extensive lesions skin - significant loss liquids, electrolytes.
Fever and moderate intoxication are possible.

Food poisoning:

Manifests itself in the form of gastroenteritis (vomiting, frequent watery stool, cramping pain in the abdomen);
Short incubation period (from 30 minutes to 7 hours);
Rapid reversal of symptoms even without etiotropic treatment;
No fever.

Features of the clinic of staphylococcal infection in newborns:

Generalization of the process with damage to internal organs.
High incidence of skin lesions (pyoderma, Ritter exfoliative dermatitis, extensive phlegmon).
The dynamism of local inflammatory processes (purulent or necrotic tissue decay within several hours from the onset of the disease).
High incidence of hemodynamic and hemocoagulation disorders.
Necrotizing ulcerative enterocolitis of a newborn (deep ulcerative-necrotic lesions of the intestinal wall with perforation, development of peritonitis).
Characterized by a severe course and high mortality.

Patient actions for staphylococcal infection

Detection of purulent foci requires immediate consultation with a doctor. It is important to identify the strain of bacteria and prescribe antibiotics based on the sensitivity of the microorganisms.

Diagnosis of staphylococcal infection

To confirm a staphylococcal infection, it is necessary to detect the microorganism in materials taken from the patient. It could be blood purulent discharge, urine, sputum, cerebrospinal fluid.

After isolation of the pathogen, its sensitivity to antimicrobial drugs is determined. This is necessary for choosing effective antibiotics.

Treatment of staph infection

Treating staph infections can be difficult due to the bacteria's resistance to most antibiotics.

The most common types of antibiotics used in the treatment of staphylococcal infections are:

Amoxicillin. This antibiotic is capable of multiplying pathogenic microorganisms. It is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that blocks the production of peptidoglycan.
Vancomycin. The mechanism of action of vancomycin is associated with blocking a component that is part of the bacterial cell membrane. When exposed to the drug, the degree of permeability of the wall changes, which ultimately leads to the death of staphylococcus. Vancomycin is usually given intravenously.
Cloxacillin. This antibiotic helps block the membranes of bacteria that are at the stage of division.
Cefazolin. This is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, when exposed to which the bacteria does not produce cell membrane components. Cefazolin is used intravenously and intramuscularly.
Oxacillin. This antibiotic has a negative effect on bacteria late stages their development, contributing to their death. It can be used intravenously, intramuscularly or orally.
Cephalexin. The mechanism of action of cephalexin is that this drug prevents the synthesis of components that make up the cell membrane of the staphylococcal bacterium.
Cephalothin. This drug prevents the bacteria from dividing normally. It is used intravenously and intramuscularly, depending on the indications.
Cefotaxime. The action of this antibiotic is aimed at suppressing the growth and reproduction of bacteria. It is used both intravenously and intramuscularly. The dose of the drug is selected on an individual basis.
Erythromycin. This antibiotic interferes with the production of a protein vital for the bacteria.
Claritomycin. Like erythromycin, clarithomycin prevents bacteria from producing proteins necessary to keep them alive.
Clindamycin. Another antibiotic that prevents bacteria from producing certain types proteins necessary for their life.

In some cases, treatment involves surgery, taking immunostimulants, vitamin therapy and dietary supplements.

Surgical treatment is necessary to eliminate purulent foci, for example with boils and abscesses.

Complications of staphylococcal infection

Staphylococcal bacteria have a destructive effect on connective tissue, subcutaneous tissue and skin. They can cause the development of such the most dangerous diseases such as sepsis, toxic shock, purulent tissue damage, central nervous system disorders nervous system, pneumonia and general intoxication body.

Prevention of staphylococcal infection

The main preventive measure against staphylococcal infection is hygiene. It is important to prevent weakening of the immune system, which automatically leads to the activation of opportunistic microflora, including staphylococci. Balanced diet, stress avoidance and optimal exercise stress help improve immune defense.

Staphylococcus is the most common microbe on our planet. There is probably not a single person who has not heard of him. harmful influence on the body. However cutaneous staphylococcus- this is just a collective name for distributors of very serious diseases.

The effect of staphylococcus on the body

Of this entire group of microorganisms, the most dangerous, as well as the most common, is. Infection with this dangerous microorganism can lead to many diseases, among which the most famous are the skin forms:

pyoderma;
furunculosis;
carbunculosis;
felon;
phlegmon;
erysipelas and many, many others.

Staphylococcus is very difficult to overcome. After all, even in a dried state, it is able to retain its destructive properties for six months. This microbe does not die when exposed to sunlight or when frozen. But the pathogenic effect of this microbe is due to the fact that it produces a very strong toxin that damages almost all layers of the skin. Among other things, this microbe produces a special substance that protects it from the action of not only leukocytes, the main defenders of our body, but also from antibiotics. That is why cutaneous staphylococcus, the symptoms and treatment of which will be described here, is the most common and intractable skin disease.

Anyone can become infected with a staphylococcal infection, but this disease can progress differently for everyone, because it all depends on how strongly a person’s immunity is developed, under what conditions this microbe got on his skin and whether the treatment was chosen correctly. However, there are also people who live with this dangerous microbe for years in a kind of “friendship”, and despite the fact that it is present on their skin, it does not cause any diseases.

Symptoms of cutaneous staphylococcus

The symptoms of each disease caused by cutaneous staphylococcus will depend on the location, severity and level protective forces body. Although sometimes cutaneous staphylococcus can change these symptoms, so understand the real reason diseases can be quite complex. Let's look at each disease that this microbe causes in more detail.

Pyoderma. This disease most often occurs in newborns and is a consequence of poor care. In this disease, staphylococcus penetrates into the upper layers of the skin and because of this, very small blisters with purulent contents appear on it. The child tries to comb these blisters, and at the same time the leaking pus occupies more and more new areas of the skin. The disease occurs with high fever and malaise, but the baby’s general condition does not suffer much.
Furunculosis. A very common skin disease caused by cutaneous staphylococcus. Symptoms depend on the location of the microbe, and it can cause an inflammatory process on any area of the skin. With furunculosis, a slight redness appears on the skin, which has a kind of necrosis in the center. Gradually, the necrotic tissue dies and pus begins to flow out of the small wound. Boils on the neck and face are especially dangerous, because the inflammatory process that occurs in the skin can easily and simply spread to the meninges.
Felon. Inflammation of the periungual fold, which is also caused by cutaneous staphylococcus. With this disease, the affected nail plate and the skin around it look reddened and hot to the touch, often the inflammatory process is accompanied by mild pain. If you open the epidermis at the site of inflammation, then pus will begin to flow out of it. The process may eventually spread to other fingers, as well as move to deeper layers of the skin.
Phlegmon. An inflammatory skin disease characterized by very severe swelling skin, redness of the inflammatory area, elevated body temperature, general malaise. If penetrated into fiber, it can cause very severe inflammation skin, up to tissue death.
Erysipelas. Exactly this serious illness, which can be caused by cutaneous staphylococcus. With this disease, the body temperature rises to 40 degrees, the person experiences constant nausea, which often turns into vomiting. The inflammatory process is most often localized to lower limbs. The site of inflammation appears reddened, hot to the touch, and sometimes small rashes occur. General state a person with this disease can be very severe.

Treatment of cutaneous staphylococcus

Since cutaneous staphylococcus, the treatment of which must be long-term, is not only the most common microorganism, but also the most resistant, simply treating it with antibiotics is not enough. That is why a whole range of measures are used in the treatment of this disease.

Antibiotics. However, the use of antibiotics for this disease should be justified. Not every antibiotic can cure cutaneous staphylococcus. Most often, intravenous and intramuscular administration of medications is used. The most effective drugs will be gentamicin, ampicillin, oxacillin or amoxiclav. It is these antibiotics that not only stop the growth of staphylococcus, but also prevent it from spreading further in the body.
Antibiotic ointments, for example, “Levomekol”, “Methyluracil”, “Gentamicin”. These ointments should be applied morning and evening, generously lubricating the affected area of the skin.
Vitamin therapy is needed in order to boost immunity and prevent skin staphylococcal infections from becoming subcutaneous. It is also good to start taking adaptagens, for example, eleutherococcus and ginseng. These drugs will also help fight this terrible infection.
Autohemotherapy, that is, the introduction of a person’s own blood, taken from a vein, into the muscle also gives a good effect when complex treatment staphylococcal infections.
But it’s better to forget about sauna and warming procedures, as they can increase inflammation and increase the amount of pus.

A special group of diseases are those whose development is provoked by pathogenic diseases. It is considered conditionally - pathogenic microorganisms, since it is always present on human skin. In some cases, staphylococcus can exist peacefully, but in others it causes the development of severe infections.

Such a microorganism can cause inflammatory processes in absolutely any system and organ. How does staphylococcus manifest itself, why is it so dangerous and why do specialists pay such close attention to its treatment?

Staphylococcus - bacteria that are found on the skin and mucous membranes

is a spherical bacterium that belongs to the gram-positive cocci. Often it becomes part of the conditionally pathogenic microflora of a person, that is, it is simply present on his epidermis. Experts also identify pathogenic staphylococcus, the penetration of which into the human body almost always causes the development of the disease.

The danger of such a bacterium lies in the fact that it produces enzymes and toxins that pose a danger to cells and interfere with their normal functioning. In addition, such bacteria destroy subcutaneous tissue, tissue and epidermis. It is under the influence of staphylococci that dangerous diseases such as pneumonia, general intoxication of the body, sepsis, toxic shock and dysfunction of the central nervous system develop.

Often staphylococcal infection causes various complications after surgical intervention and inflammatory pathologies.

The difficulty in treating such infections lies in the fact that such microorganisms are resistant to environment and are highly resistant to antibacterial drugs.

What diseases can staphylococcus manifest in the human body? Symptoms are determined by the location of introduction and reproduction of staphylococcus, as well as the degree of its aggressiveness.

More information about Staphylococcus aureus can be found in the video:

Most often, the microorganism causes the development of the following pathologies:

Rhinitis is characterized by the occurrence inflammatory process in the nasal mucosa, the bacterium provokes copious mucus secretion and breathing problems. Mostly this pathology is caused and a person can become either a temporary carrier or a permanent carrier.
Sinusitis causes inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, and the maxillary and frontal regions are predominantly affected. The main signs of the disease are problems with nasal breathing, insomnia, loss of appetite and a rise in body temperature.
Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the area of the mucous membrane covering the pharynx. Patients complain of redness back wall pharynx, formation of viscous mucus in it, dry cough and hoarseness of voice.
Conjunctivitis, caused by staphylococcus, causes swelling of the eyelid and photophobia. In addition, purulent discharge from the eyes appears, and after sleep the patient cannot open his eyes.
Pneumonia of staphylococcal origin is characterized by a severe course and causes mass destruction lungs. In addition, this disease is resistant to therapy and often ends in the death of the patient. Characteristic symptoms such diseases are painful sensations in the chest, shortness of breath and pronounced intoxication of the body.

When staphylococci enter the brain, they develop purulent meningitis and abscesses. Such pathological conditions They are life-threatening, difficult to treat and can lead to disability. The main signs of such dangerous diseases are vomiting, fever, toxicosis and headaches.

Types of bacteria

Experts identify three types of staphylococcus that pose the greatest danger to the human body.

Most often, three types of it are detected in patients:

Saprophytic staphylococcus primarily penetrates into female body and provokes the development of various inflammatory diseases of the bladder. Main location saprophytic staphylococcus The skin in the genital area and the mucous membrane of the urethra serve. This microorganism causes the least damage in the body compared to its other species.
Staphylococcus epidermidis can easily be found on various skin and mucous membranes. With the normal functioning of the immune system, the human body independently copes with such a microorganism and no diseases develop. In the event that an epidermal microorganism enters the blood of a person with weakened protective functions, then inflammation of the inner lining of the heart occurs.
Staphylococcus aureus is considered the most common and dangerous looking, to which both children and adults are susceptible. Such a bacterium is capable of penetrating into any tissues and organs and causing the development dangerous pathologies. Such a microorganism is quite tenacious and can withstand high temperatures and exposure to direct sun rays. Staphylococcus aureus often causes purulent skin lesions and infections such as pneumonia, toxic shock, osteomyelitis and sepsis.

Diagnosis of infection and treatment

When signs of staphylococcus appear in the human body, its secretions, which are formed during the infection process, are taken for examination. Fluid from the spinal cord and pustular discharge can be used as test material. After this, the tests undergo a certain check, and the pathogen is determined, which is classified as certain group and begin treatment.

Swabs from the throat and nose can be used as research material. After the analysis, it is determined whether the person is infected or is a carrier of the disease. If staphylococcus is detected in a person, treatment is selected if necessary, main goal which is the fight against the pathogen and the elimination of the consequences of its life activity.

Treatment is carried out using modern antibacterial drugs of a new generation due to the non-sensitivity of staphylococci to regular medications. The following antibiotics are used to eliminate the infection:

semisynthetic and protected penicillins
aminoglycosides
other types of drugs

To combat staphylococci, the following drugs are most often prescribed:

Amoxicillin
Oxacillin
Erythromycin
Clarithromycin
Vancomycin
Cephalothin
Cefotaxime

Before starting to use a particular drug, an antibiogram is performed, that is, the sensitivity of the microorganism to the selected drug is determined. Such research is relevant for human health, because it guarantees that the bacteria will not develop resistance.

When treating a staphylococcal infection, it is important to observe the frequency of the drug, its dosage and time of administration. It is important to remember that you should take the antibiotic for at least 5 days, and not until the first symptoms of the disease disappear. The course of treatment should not be interrupted, as this may further worsen the patient’s health condition.

Possible complications

In the absence of effective treatment streptococcal infection the following complications may develop:

endocarditis is damage by a microorganism to the heart valves and inner layers of the heart
meningitis - characterized by purulent inflammation meninges in combination with a rise in body temperature, vomiting, nausea and convulsions
syndrome toxic shock– this is a shock reaction of the body in response to the penetration of infection into it
blood poisoning occurs when staphylococcus enters the blood, begins to produce toxins and poison the body

Today it is considered one of the main reasons for the development purulent-septic complications in weakened children and especially in newborns. It is important to identify the bacterium as early as possible and begin intensive treatment, which will avoid the development of many complications.

What is staphylococcus?

Staphylococcus is a bacterium that has a regular spherical or spherical shape, belonging to the group of positive non-motile microorganisms. For humans, staphylococcus in some cases is an opportunistic bacterium, one that always lives on his body. But they also highlight pathogenic staphylococcus, which, once inside the body, will definitely cause disease. In addition, it is widely distributed in nature.

In the presence of certain conditions conducive to this, the bacterium can exhibit pathological activity and cause an inflammatory process in any organ or organ system of a person. This could be the skin, nervous tissue, brain, heart, digestive system etc.

Staphylococcus has a large number of strains (27), the most common and pathogenic of which are aureus, epidermal, saprophytic and hemolytic staphylococcus. Each of them has a varying degree of aggressiveness and pathogenetic activity.

The danger of these microorganisms is that they produce toxins and enzymes that are pathogenic for cells and disrupt their vital functions. Bacteria have a destructive effect on connective tissues, skin and subcutaneous tissue. They cause a number of dangerous diseases, including sepsis, toxic shock, disorders of the central nervous system, pneumonia, purulent skin lesions, general intoxication of the body. Often complications after various diseases are associated with staphylococcal infection.

Staphylococci are stable in the environment and have a fairly high resistance to antibiotics.

Types of staphylococcus

There are three types of staphylococcus, which are the most common and harmful to the human body:

Saprophytic staphylococcus most often affects women, causing them inflammatory diseases of the bladder (cystitis) and kidneys. Saprophytic staphylococcus bacteria are localized in the layers of the skin of the genitals and the mucous membrane of the urethra. Of all the types of staphylococcus, it causes the least damage.

Staphylococcus epidermidis can live on all mucous membranes and any part of human skin. With normal immunity, the body copes with this bacterium, and it does not cause any damage. But if somehow epidermal staphylococcus gets from the skin into the blood of a person with weak immunity(after surgery), inflammation of the endocardium (inner lining of the heart) may develop due to blood poisoning.

Staphylococcus aureus is the most common and dangerous species. Adults and children, men and women are equally susceptible to infection. The bacterium can infect any organ, causing inflammatory diseases, the number of which exceeds a hundred. This is an extremely persistent and tenacious microorganism that can withstand very high temperatures, exposure to direct sunlight, 100% ethyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide and a number of antibiotics. Staphylococcus aureus causes purulent lesions skin (boils, boils, styes, etc.). It also causes a large number of dangerous systemic and common infections: staphylococcal sepsis, pneumonia, toxic shock, formation of ulcers in the brain, heart, liver and kidneys, osteomyelitis, food poisoning etc.

Symptoms of staphylococcus

Symptoms of staphylococcus will depend on which organ or system is affected. The degree of their severity is influenced by the aggression of the microorganism and the state of the immune system of a particular person.

Among the most common signs of infection are:

Pyoderma. As a result of the introduction of bacteria under the skin, a purulent inflammatory process occurs. This may cause inflammation of the sebaceous and sweat glands, as well as hair follicles. Among the most common manifestations of pyoderma are folliculitis (manifested in inflammation upper section hair follicle), hidradenitis (when the site of infection is the sweat glands), carbuncle (when the skin, skin tissue and a group of hair follicles become inflamed), boil (inflamed hair follicle, sebaceous gland and connective tissues around). Wherever the inflammatory process is localized, it is always accompanied by the appearance of purulent masses, swelling and hyperemia of the surrounding tissues, and painful sensations of varying intensity. In some cases, there is an increase in temperature, vomiting and nausea may occur (more often with carbuncles and hidradenitis).

Rhinitis. By causing an inflammatory process in the nasal mucosa, the bacterium leads to copious discharge mucus, which makes it difficult nasal breathing. This is where the most common type of bacteria settles - Staphylococcus aureus. In this case, a person can be either a permanent or temporary carrier of it. Most often, the patient complains of the following symptoms: difficulty breathing, impaired sense of smell, increased secretion of mucous secretion, change in voice timbre, mouth breathing. At the beginning, there is little mucus, but as the disease progresses, its amount increases and it becomes purulent.

Sinusitis. Characterized by an inflammatory process localized in paranasal sinuses nose The maxillary and frontal areas are most often affected, which leads to the development of diseases such as sinusitis or frontal sinusitis. The disease is very common in the practice of otolaryngologists. Sinusitis accounts for up to 10% of all upper respiratory tract diseases in adults. Patients present the following complaints: inability to breathe through the nose, rhinophonia, severe runny nose with yellow-green discharge, general weakness, sleep disturbances, lack of appetite, increased body temperature, sometimes to high values, pain localized in the area of the inflamed sinuses. If the infection is acute, then the thermometer shows numbers up to 39 degrees; if it becomes chronic, then no more than 37.5 degrees.

Pharyngitis. They are characterized by an inflammatory process localized in the mucous membrane lining the pharynx. Often the infection involves nearby tissues of the tonsils. In this case, the disease is called tonsillopharyngitis. Patients experience the following symptoms: redness of the back of the throat, the appearance of viscous mucus on it, a sore throat, dry cough, hoarseness, and pain. All these signs occur against the background general weakness, with elevated body temperature and decreased appetite. According to statistics, pharyngitis caused by staphylococci is diagnosed in adults in no more than 5% of cases.

Laryngitis. Accompanied by the presence of an inflammatory process in the mucous membrane lining the larynx. The trachea often becomes infected, which is called laryngotracheitis. A distinctive feature of staphylococcal infection is the presence of purulent discharge. In addition, the patient complains of pain in the larynx, dryness and soreness, changes in voice timbre, even loss of voice. In addition, there is a low body temperature, mostly not exceeding 37 degrees.

Bronchitis. The disease is characterized by inflammation in the bronchi. Most often it begins with the development of a pathological process in the upper respiratory tract We gradually move on to the larynx, trachea and bronchi. The patient suffers from a cough, which can be either dry or wet with sputum discharge. If the bronchi are damaged by a bacterium, the sputum produced will contain purulent contents. In addition, there is an increase in body temperature, up to 39 degrees, shortness of breath and pain in the chest area.

Pneumonia. In case of defeat lung tissue staphylococcal infection, has a severe course. Statistics indicate that outside a hospital, a person can get this type of pneumonia in only 1% of cases, but inside a hospital, staphylococcus affects the lungs much more often, on average, in 15% of cases. Among the complex of symptoms there are regular repeated increases in body temperature. That is, it periodically rises and falls, which manifests itself in the form of chills. The patient suffers from severe shortness of breath, muscle weakness, pain when coughing and even when breathing. Localization location painful sensations – rib cage, they are associated with stretching of the pleura. The sputum becomes not just mucous, but with purulent impurities. The complexion becomes bluish, which is a consequence of oxygen starvation. Often it is staphylococcal pneumonia that leads to the development of lung abscesses and pleural empyema. The most serious complication is sepsis.

Osteomyelitis. Manifests itself in purulent-necrotic lesions bone tissue and bone marrow, as well as the surrounding soft tissue. In adults, the spine is most often affected; the route of infection is hematogenous, that is, the bacterium reaches its destination through the bloodstream. However, the symptoms are not too pronounced. The temperature, as a rule, does not exceed subfebrile levels, while the person experiences pain at the site of inflammation and disorder motor function in the relevant area.

Food poisoning caused by staphylococcus develops acutely. Often, the first signs of infection are observed within half an hour after eating contaminated products. Among the symptoms, patients note: abdominal pain, frequent vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea.

These are the most common diseases caused by bacteria.

However, in order for the clinical picture caused by staphylococcus to be complete, it is necessary to present the general symptoms caused by the microorganism:

Local increase in body temperature. Exactly local increase temperature is due to the fact that in this way the body tries to cope with pathogenic bacterium and prevent it from reproducing. This method of protection is called the bacteriostatic effect.

Hyperemia, which is formed due to a rush of blood to the site of inflammation. At the same time, the vessels dilate, and the outflow venous blood decreases. This is also the body’s protective reaction to infection. Thus, he tries to increase the flow of oxygen to neutralize the toxic effect.

Tissue swelling due to increased vascular permeability.

Painful sensations caused by pinching nerve endings edematous tissues. Damage to the vessel may also occur due to excess blood flow, which contributes to pain.

Impaired functionality of organs and tissues as a result of their damage at the cellular level.

It is important not to apply knowledge regarding the symptoms of the disease in adulthood to children. This is because signs of infection will be in different ages slightly different. This is especially true for newborns and children under one year old.

How is staphylococcus transmitted? Causes of infection

All diseases that the bacterium causes can occur as a result of the fact that the infection enters the body through a violation of the integrity of the skin or mucous membranes, because it is a permanent inhabitant of the human skin and mucous membranes. In addition, infection can occur exogenously, that is, ingested through food or through close contact.

At the same time, we should not forget that some people are permanent or temporary carriers of this bacterium, which also has a significant role in the possibility of transmission. At the same time, pathogenic bacteria do not manifest themselves in any way and such people pose a particular danger to those around them.

The following are distinguished: possible ways transmission of infection:

Contact and household path. When bacteria enter the body through various items everyday use or through direct contact with skin. Sometimes it is enough to use someone else's towel or bedding for infection to occur. In this case, the bacterium can cause both an inflammatory process and simply exist in the host’s body.

By airborne droplets. That is, a person inhales air in which bacteria are present. The most common source of infection is sick people who release bacteria when they cough, sneeze, or simply breathe.

Dust. Bacteria have the property long time exist in the surrounding dust. When it enters the respiratory tract, infection occurs. This path is called air-dust path.

The fecal-oral route, which is also called the nutritional route. In this case, the bacteria are released when an infected organism vomits or defecates. An uninfected person eats foods that contain staphylococcus and becomes ill. This often happens due to insufficient hygiene, namely through dirty hands.

Medical instruments. Infection can penetrate into a healthy body through poorly processed medical instruments, which is called an artificial method of infection. This happens when passing diagnostic procedures, for example, during bronchoscopy, as well as during surgery. Additional danger is that instruments can be processed in the usual way, but they contain bacteria that have developed resistance to specific processing methods.

In addition to the existing routes of infection, there are also reasons that provoke a person to become infected with a bacterium:

Any disease that causes a decrease in human immune strength. This also includes frequent and severe stress and irregular sleep.

General hypothermia of the body. This reason plays a leading role in the development of the inflammatory process in the upper respiratory tract. At low temperatures body, the work of the cilia of the ciliated epithelium, which line the nasal mucosa, slows down. Thus, it is much easier for infections to enter the body and provoke an inflammatory process.

Existing diabetes mellitus and disruption of the endocrine system.

Bad habits such as smoking and frequent consumption of alcoholic beverages.

The presence of the immunodeficiency virus or AIDS.

Chronic diseases.

Age. According to statistics, newborns and young children are most susceptible to infection. preschool age and older people.

Viral infections often precede the disease becoming bacterial. In most cases, this is observed with influenza and ARVI, when, against the background of a decline in immunity, the staphylococci existing in the body begin to exhibit pathological activity.

Prolonged use of vasoconstrictor drops, which disrupt the integrity of the nasal mucosa and promote infection.

Inhalation of allergens and toxic substances leads to trauma to the bronchi, which can become a provoking factor in the development of bacterial inflammation.

Insufficient hygiene.

Eating contaminated foods.

Violation of the integrity of the mucous membranes or skin.

In medicine, it is customary to distinguish four degrees of staphylococcus. Moreover, each of which is characterized by a certain degree of activity and requires various treatments. It is necessary to distinguish between staphylococci that are definitely pathogenic, which are destructive to blood cells, and opportunistic, which contribute to the development of a minor inflammatory reaction. In addition, there are also saprophytes that cause virtually no damage.

It is knowledge of the degree of infection that helps doctors more accurately select treatment and predict the nature of the disease. Although the division by degree is rather conditional, and the prognosis largely depends on the level of immunity of the infected person, as well as his resistance to the bacterium.

A doctor can determine the degree of activity of staphylococcus by collecting blood or other materials for laboratory testing. He also decides on the need for treatment and the nature of future therapy.

Stage 1 staphylococcus

If the immune system is normal, then this degree of staphylococcus will not be able to cause pathological processes, which means that treatment is not required.

Stage 2 staphylococcus

When staphylococcus is detected in such a low diagnostic titer, doctors most often do not prescribe treatment. However, it is necessary comprehensive examination to identify other infections. This is especially true if there are any complaints about pathological processes occurring in the body.

If it is discovered that a person has a concomitant infection, then staphylococcus must be eliminated from the body using antibacterial therapy. However, the need for treatment is determined by the doctor and depends on each specific case.

Stage 3 staphylococcus

When it is discovered that a person has stage 3 staphylococcus, most doctors agree that it is necessary antibacterial therapy. Although when in good condition Without immune forces, the bacterium will not be able to provoke an infectious process. This degree is considered acceptable, but with any disruption in the body it can lead to serious inflammatory reactions.

First of all, the doctor will prescribe treatment aimed at strengthening the immune system; if it does not have an effect after 2 months, then a further therapeutic regimen is developed individually in each specific case.

4 degree staphylococcus

When grade 4 staphylococci are detected, it is required specific treatment, although such indicators are considered only potentially dangerous. It is important to prevent bacteria from becoming resistant to the drug, and it is also necessary to determine the sensitivity of a specific bacterium to a specific drug. Only after this can treatment begin, which in the vast majority of cases (if there are no signs of inflammation) boils down to increasing immunity and getting rid of possible dysbacteriosis and vitamin deficiency.

Complications and consequences of staphylococcus - what will happen if left untreated?

When antibacterial therapy is not started in a timely manner, this can lead to serious complications:

Endocarditis. IN in this case The heart valve and inner layers of the heart are affected. In this case, the patient experiences joint pain, increased heart rate, decreased performance, and sometimes body temperature rises. This pathology, in turn, is accompanied by no less serious diseases, including heart failure, meningitis, etc.

Meningitis caused by staphylococcus is characterized by purulent inflammation of the membranes of the brain, accompanied by high body temperature, nausea and vomiting, convulsions, and severe headache. Moreover, even timely initiation of therapy does not guarantee that the patient will avoid death. Mortality rate adequate treatment up to 30%.

Toxic shock syndrome is often considered a symptom of a staph infection, however, it is a complication of the disease. It consists of a shock reaction of the body in response to infection. Wherein drug therapy difficult. The patient suffers from elevated temperature body, up to 40 degrees, repeated vomiting and diarrhea. Arterial pressure falls, there is a high probability of death.

Blood poisoning is another serious complication of an untreated infection. Happens in that case. When a bacterium enters the bloodstream and begins to poison the body with the toxins it produces. It is sepsis caused by staphylococcus that is the most common blood infection and also the most dangerous. In addition to extremely high temperature body, it is accompanied by severe headaches, nausea and vomiting, damage to the liver, intestines, lungs, and brain. At the same time, antibacterial therapy without a preliminary antibiogram often leads to high mortality among patients.

Treatment of staphylococcus

In order to get rid of bacteria, a competent selection of antibacterial therapy is necessary.

The most commonly used treatments are the following:

Amoxicillin, which is able to suppress the reproduction and growth of pathogenic bacteria and promote their destruction. It has a fairly wide spectrum of action and blocks the production of peptidoglycan. Use regardless of meals, no more than 1 g three times a day.

Vancomycin helps block a component that is part of the bacterial cell membrane, changes the degree of permeability of its wall, which leads to the death of staphylococcus. It is given intravenously, either every 6 or every 12 hours. The dosage is determined by the doctor.

Cloxacillin. Helps block membranes that are at the stage of bacterial division. It is necessary to take the drug every 6 hours at a dosage of 500 mg.

Cefazolin. Possesses wide range action, prevents the production of bacterial cell wall components. Can be used both intravenously and intramuscularly, up to 4 times a day.

Oxacillin. It has a detrimental effect in the later stages of bacterial development and contributes to their destruction. Used intravenously, intramuscularly and orally.

Cephalexin. The drug prevents the synthesis of components that make up the bacterial cell wall. Must be taken before meals, every 6 hours.

Cephalothin, which disrupts the ability of bacteria to divide normally and also has a destructive effect on the membrane of staphylococci. Used both intravenously and intramuscularly.

Cefotaxime. The drug is aimed at suppressing the growth of bacteria and preventing them from multiplying. Used both intravenously and intramuscularly. The dosage is selected individually.

Claritomycin, which prevents bacteria from producing their own proteins. It is most often used in tablet form, although it may be given intravenously for severe infections.

Erythromycin also interferes with protein production and must be used every 6 hours.

Clindamycin is also aimed at eliminating the ability of bacteria to produce a certain protein, which leads to its death.

Before you start using this or that drug, it is necessary to conduct an antibiogram. This will help identify the sensitivity of staphylococcus to the drug. Conducting such a study is important for the patient’s health, which will guarantee that the bacteria will not develop resistance.

Treatment of staphylococcal infection requires strict adherence to the frequency of administration, time of use of the drug and its dosage. It is important to take the prescribed remedy not until the first symptoms disappear, but for at least 5 days. If it is necessary to extend the course, the doctor will inform you about this. In addition, treatment cannot be stopped; therapy must be continuous.

Prevention in the fight against infection is a necessary measure that doctors around the world insist on. Firstly, this is due to the fact that every year the bacterium becomes more and more resistant to antibacterial agents designed to eliminate it. This makes fighting infection especially difficult. Secondly, staphylococcus can cause serious harm to the human body, so it is easier to prevent the development of inflammation than to fight it later. And thirdly, treatment antibacterial agents always involves certain health risks in the form of various side effects.

Therefore, compliance with the following preventive measures will help you stay healthy:

Timely elimination of possible foci of infection. Dental caries can serve as sources, constantly sore tonsils, enlarged adenoids, conjunctivitis, unremoved tooth roots, boils, barley, inflammatory diseases of the genital area and urinary tract. Any source is a source increased danger which should be eliminated immediately. Moreover, harm can be caused not only own health, but also to the health of the people around us.

Prevention of ARVI and seasonal influenza epidemics. Regarding the latter, it is advisable to undergo vaccination.

Cleanliness of the workplace, home and clothing, ventilation of the room, especially when there is a congestion large number of people. It is no secret that not only clothes, but also dust are often contaminated with staphylococcus. In addition, it is unacceptable to use other people’s items for personal hygiene.

Playing sports, balanced diet, refusal bad habits, maintaining an active lifestyle. All this will strengthen the body’s immune forces and help it resist possible infection.

Compliance with personal hygiene rules. In terms of preventing staph infections, it is most advisable to talk about regular hand washing.

Eating clean, preferably heat-treated foods that have not expired. Often the source of infection is confectionery products, canned foods, poorly processed fruits and vegetables, as well as meat and milk from cows with mastitis.

Timely treatment of wounds with antiseptic and, if necessary, antibacterial agents.

Visit a doctor if you notice the first symptoms of the disease or if you suspect a possible carrier of the infection.

Careful processing of tools from the outside medical personnel. Avoidance of negligence regarding sanitary standards.

Refusal to go to dubious tattoo parlors, manicure salons, solariums and other establishments of this kind.