Staph Infections (Invasive)

Invasive staph infections, also known as invasive Staphylococcus aureus infections, occur when the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus enters the body and causes a serious infection. This type of infection can be life-threatening if left untreated.

What is Staphylococcus aureus?

Staphylococcus aureus, commonly referred to as staph, is a type of bacteria that is normally found on the skin and in the noses of healthy individuals. While it is usually harmless, it can cause infections if it enters the body through a cut or wound.

Symptoms of Invasive Staph Infections

The symptoms of invasive staph infections can vary depending on the location and severity of the infection. Common symptoms include:

• Fever and chills
• Swollen, red, and painful skin or tissue
• Pus-filled abscesses or boils
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Headache and fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or abdominal pain (in cases of gastrointestinal infection)
• Cough and shortness of breath (in cases of respiratory infection)
• Urinary frequency, urgency, or burning sensation (in cases of urinary tract infection)

Types of Invasive Staph Infections

Invasive staph infections can occur in various parts of the body, including:

• Bloodstream (bacteremia or sepsis)
• Bones and joints (osteomyelitis or septic arthritis)
• Heart (endocarditis)
• Lungs (pneumonia)
• Brain and spinal cord (meningitis or brain abscess)
• Urinary tract
• Gastrointestinal tract

Treatments for Invasive Staph Infections

Treatment for invasive staph infections usually involves a combination of antibiotics and supportive care. The goal is to eliminate the infection, manage symptoms, and prevent complications.

• Antibiotics: The choice of antibiotic depends on the severity and location of the infection, as well as the susceptibility of the bacteria to different antibiotics. Commonly used antibiotics include vancomycin, nafcillin, and cefazolin.
• Surgical drainage: In cases where an abscess or boil has formed, surgical drainage may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and promote healing.
• Supportive care: This includes measures such as fluid replacement, oxygen therapy, and pain management to help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
• Intravenous (IV) antibiotics: In severe cases, IV antibiotics may be administered in a hospital setting to ensure high levels of the antibiotic are delivered directly into the bloodstream.

Prevention of Invasive Staph Infections

To reduce the risk of developing an invasive staph infection:

• Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently, especially after touching animals or their waste.
• Avoid sharing personal items: Refrain from sharing towels, razors, or other personal care items to prevent the spread of bacteria.
• Keep wounds clean and covered: Properly clean and dress wounds to prevent bacterial entry.
• Avoid close contact with individuals who have staph infections

Complications of Invasive Staph Infections

If left untreated or inadequately treated, invasive staph infections can lead to serious complications, including:

• Sepsis: A life-threatening condition that occurs when the infection spreads to the bloodstream and causes a systemic inflammatory response.
• Endocarditis: An infection of the heart valves or lining.
• Osteomyelitis: An infection of the bones.
• Septic arthritis: An infection of the joints.
• Meningitis: An infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.