Staphylococcus: Species, Infections, and Treatment
Staphylococci are Gram-positive cocci in clusters, ubiquitous on skin and mucous membranes.
Key Species
- S. aureus: Most virulent; causes skin/soft tissue infections, pneumonia, bacteremia, toxic shock, food poisoning.
- S. epidermidis: Commensal; opportunistic on devices (catheters, prosthetics).
- S. saprophyticus: Common cause of UTIs in young women.
Transmission
Direct contact, fomites, contaminated food/water.
Treatment
Antibiotics guided by susceptibility (e.g., nafcillin for MSSA, vancomycin for MRSA). Prevention: hand hygiene, wound care, aseptic technique.
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