From the Guidelines
Staphylococcus aureus is the most common pathogen in skin and soft tissue infections, particularly in conditions such as abscesses, furuncles, carbuncles, cellulitis, and impetigo, as well as in more severe infections like osteomyelitis, septic arthritis, and prosthetic joint infections. According to the most recent guidelines, S. aureus is a leading cause of healthcare-associated infections, including surgical site infections, bloodstream infections, and pneumonia, especially in ventilator-associated cases 1. The bacterium's ability to cause a wide range of infections is attributed to its numerous virulence factors, including adhesins, toxins, and enzymes that enable it to attach to and damage host tissues, as well as its capacity to form biofilms on medical devices.
Some of the key conditions where S. aureus is the most common pathogen include:
- Skin and soft tissue infections, such as cellulitis, abscesses, and impetigo
- Surgical site infections
- Bloodstream infections
- Pneumonia, particularly ventilator-associated pneumonia
- Osteomyelitis
- Septic arthritis
- Prosthetic joint infections
- Infective endocarditis
It is essential to note that S. aureus, particularly methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), is a significant concern due to its antibiotic resistance, requiring specific antimicrobial therapy such as vancomycin, daptomycin, or linezolid, depending on the infection site and severity 1. The management of S. aureus infections involves prompt and aggressive treatment, including surgical debridement, antimicrobial therapy, and supportive care, as outlined in the guidelines for the diagnosis and management of skin and soft tissue infections 1.
From the Research
Conditions where Staph aureus is the most common pathogen
- Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) 2, 3, 4, 5
- Purulent skin and soft tissue infections 4
- Primary pyodermas, with S. aureus being the cause of 75% of cases 5
- Burn-wound infections, with S. aureus responsible for 25% of all cases 5
- Pressure sores, with S. aureus being one of the average three aerobic species isolated 5
- Infective endocarditis in intravenous drug users (IVDU), with 5-20% of cases being due to S. aureus 5
Characteristics of Staph aureus infections
- Can range from minor, self-limiting, superficial infections to life-threatening diseases 2
- Can lead to serious complications such as bacteraemia, osteomyelitis, and sepsis 2, 5
- Often caused by methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains 2, 3, 4
- Treatment typically involves oral or parenteral antibiotic therapy, with challenges including adverse effects and antibiotic resistance 3, 4