Staphylococcal Skin Infections
An Overview of Staphylococcal Skin Infections
Staphylococcal skin infections are caused by different types of bacteria from the Staphylococcus genus, which includes some of the most common and dangerous disease-causing agents. These infections can range from minor to severe, and can be easily spread from one person to another. There are some treatments available that can help to reduce the severity of the infection and speed up healing.
Types of Staphylococcal Skin Infections
Some of the most common types of staphylococcal skin infections include:
- Folliculitis – a superficial infection of the hair follicle
- Impetigo – a superficial infection of the skin, often caused by S. aureus
- Cellulitis – a deeper infection of the skin, often caused by S. aureus
- Boils – an infection of the deeper skin tissue, often caused by S. aureus
- Scalded skin syndrome – a severe infection often caused by S. aureus
Causes of Staphylococcal Skin Infections
Staphylococcal skin infections are typically caused by bacteria known as Staphylococcus aureus, which is found on the skin and in the nose of about a third of healthy people. This bacteria is generally harmless, but can cause infection if it enters the skin through cuts or other injuries.
Staphylococcal skin infections can also be spread through contact with an infected person or by sharing items like towels and razors that may have come into contact with their skin.
Treatment of Staphylococcal Skin Infections
The treatment of staphylococcal skin infections usually depends on the type and severity of the infection. For milder infections, over-the-counter antibiotic creams and ointments are usually enough to treat the infection. For more severe infections, stronger medications, such as oral antibiotics, may be necessary.
It is important to finish any course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if the infection seems to have cleared up. This is because incompletely treated staphylococcal skin infections can become more severe and cause further complications.