Chronic staphylococcal infection. Staphylococcal infections with damage to internal organs

A large number of bacteria are constantly present in the human body. different types. Some of them may long time is in the human body, without causing any inconvenience, but under certain conditions, they can cause significant harm. One of these conditionally pathogenic microorganisms is.

This species, under the condition of strong immune protection, does not manifest itself in any way, however, with a decrease defensive forces can provoke quite serious pathologies, in some cases leading to death. In half of the cases, the disease is asymptomatic. Therefore, it is important to know how Staphylococcus aureus is treated in adults.

Scientists call the spherical bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. This one lives in the air and on various objects.

When conducting special tests, these bacteria, due to their gram-positive nature, acquire a special color.

The pathogenicity of this type of microorganisms is due to the presence of special toxins and enzymes in them.

These substances can disrupt the functioning of body cells and destroy its tissues.

fever occurs;
rashes appear in spots;
the skin begins to peel off;
blood pressure becomes low;
there is a feeling of nausea;
headaches and sore throats appear;
impaired functioning of the lungs, liver, heart, kidneys.

Besides, This condition can develop when:

use of condoms during sexual intercourse;
in the period after the birth of the child;
carrying out an infected abortion;
getting injuries of a different nature.

Symptoms of complications

Ritter's disease can only appear in people with immunodeficiency. First, a person is struck by an infection provoked by staphylococci.

After a few hours or days, the surface layer of the dermis shrinks.

When you press on the damaged areas, the epithelium exfoliates, forming specific areas. These zones have a specific luster and red color.

Through such injuries, a person loses a lot of fluid.

food intoxication. Occurs after eating an infected product. Symptoms appear quite quickly - within two to four hours after infection. In this case, the following symptoms appear:

nausea;
pain in the abdomen;
vomit;
diarrhea.

To provoke an infection, it is necessary for microorganisms to multiply in the human body. The symptoms that will appear in this case will depend on the habitat of the microbes.

and soft tissues of the body

folliculitis - a small abscess forms, having a yellow center and a red border;
furuncle - the hair follicle and tissues around it become inflamed;
carbuncle - several follicles merge into one and have one necrotic center;
phlegmon - purulent fusion subcutaneous tissue extends deeper and along tissues;
abscess - a focus of melting of the subcutaneous layers is formed, which is limited from healthy areas.

Respiratory tract infections:

Important! Pneumonia provoked by staphylococci can lead to the breakdown lung tissue development of a lung abscess or sepsis.

Pathologies of the nervous system:

brain abscess;
subdural empyema;
epidural abscess.

Diseases of bones and joints:

osteomyelitis of tubular bones;
melting of the space near the bones in flat bones;
bone necrosis;
arthritis and bursitis of a purulent nature.

It is also possible to lose urinary tract and organs of the cardiovascular system.

The most serious complication of infection is sepsis(blood poisoning). With this pathology, bacteria are carried with the blood flow throughout all body systems and provoke the formation a large number purulent foci.

How is Staphylococcus aureus treated in adults?

Treatment of Staphylococcus aureus in adults (photos of symptoms are presented above) should occur under the close supervision of a specialist.

To destroy Staphylococcus aureus, the schemes and methods of treatment, the specialist determines based on the individual characteristics of the patient.

Effective treatment of Staphylococcus aureus is based on a competent assessment by a specialist of the amount available in biological material colonies of microbes

with an indicator below 1 * 10 4 microorganisms per gram of material, only certain vitamin complexes and drugs that stimulate the body's natural defenses are prescribed;
when the number of bacteria is less than 10 * 10 4, certain antibiotics are introduced into the course of therapy;
when the number of microbes exceeds 100 * 10 4, the patient is placed in the intensive care unit and massive therapy is carried out.

In most cases, to eliminate staphylococcal infections, a combination of conservative and operational methods treatment.

Antibiotics

Includes:

antibacterial drugs - antibiotics from a number of penicillins are used, however, with difficult cases drugs such as Augmentin, Vancomycin, Targocid are prescribed.
bacteriophages are artificially derived viruses that destroy only staphylococci;
antistaphylococcal plasma or antistaphylococcal immunoglobulin - these are already prepared antibodies against microorganisms of this type;
immunomodulators and adaptogens - these funds are necessary to increase the body's natural defense against pathogenic bacteria.

Carry out if necessary surgical intervention . At the same time, the cavities filled with purulent mass are opened and they are cleaned and washed with antibacterial agents.

Important! Antibiotics for Staphylococcus aureus in adults are prescribed without waiting for the results of cultural culture. In the future, taking into account the data of the antibiogram, the specialist changes them to more suitable ones.

These same drugs are also relevant when answering the question of how to treat Staphylococcus aureus in the throat in adults.

With the localization of Staphylococcus aureus in the nose, treatment in adults will be supplemented with the following drugs:

means, which contain particles of pathogenic bacteria, due to which the production of antibodies is stimulated;
"Chlorophyllipt";
ointment "Bactroban" in the nasal cavity;
"Galavit" - a means of increasing immunity.

With food intoxication patients ask how to treat Staphylococcus aureus in the intestines in adults. In this case, therapy is supplemented by such means as:

intestinal antiseptics;
alcohol solution"Chlorophilipta";
enterosorbents;
probiotics;
prebiotics.

Infection resistance to antibiotics

It is impossible to give a guarantee for the complete destruction of staphylococcus bacteria in the human body. A large number of stamps of microorganisms of this species over time have acquired significant resistance to a number of the most common drugs.

In the language of medical professionals, such bacteria are called "methicillin-resistant" (MRSA). Every year the number of especially stable stamps increases.

The greatest danger is staphylococci from medical institutions.

Due to the fact that during their existence they have been treated with various drugs and disinfectants, it is quite difficult for a specialist to choose effective drug against them.

Summary

Staphylococcus bacteria belong to the group of opportunistic pathogens. With a decrease in the body's immune defenses, they can cause either intoxication or infection.
Symptoms of the disease will depend on the location of the microorganisms.

How to cure Staphylococcus aureus in an adult can only be determined by a highly qualified doctor. Therefore, when diagnosing that a Staphylococcus aureus infection is present in the patient's body, treatment should be prescribed only by a specialist.

In contact with

One of the most common types of bacteria in the world that live near a person or his body are staphylococci. Such a neighborhood can be very dangerous, because the slightest decrease in immunity will lead to the fact that microbes will begin to actively multiply, causing serious purulent-inflammatory infections. Children are more likely to suffer from staphylococcus aureus, but adults are not completely protected from infection. Find out how bacteria are transmitted, which species are considered the most dangerous, how to treat this disease.

Infections caused by staphylococci can affect any part of the body, internal organs and mucous membranes of an adult. The list of such diseases includes more than 100 medical names, while the most common are those that provoke the appearance of abscesses, boils, carbuncles, barley. The type of disease depends on where staphylococcus began to multiply:

respiratory tract - tonsillitis, sinusitis, rhinitis, pneumonia, bronchitis, etc.;
intestines - constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, poisoning;
blood - sepsis;
brain - meningitis, abscess;
bone- arthritis, osteomyelitis;
heart - endocarditis, heart failure;
mammary glands - cyst, purulent mastitis.

How is staphylococcus transmitted to humans

Scientists have identified several main ways of transmission of infection:

Contact household. The bacterium enters the body through common objects - doorknobs, bedding, shoes, towels.
Airborne. Infection occurs through the air during contact with the carrier when sneezing, kissing, coughing.
Generic. This type of infection is typical for newborns, when staphylococcus aureus is transmitted to the child from the mother during childbirth.
Fecal-oral. This type of infection is associated with non-compliance with the rules and norms of hygiene. Staphylococcus aureus in the feces of an adult and some other types of bacteria can be detected if a person has eaten unwashed vegetables, berries, fruits, has come into contact with vomit or feces.
Dust. Bactria are very difficult to remove from fleecy surfaces (carpets, towels, rugs) and can exist in dust for a long time, getting into the body with small particles when breathing.
Artifical. Infection occurs through medical instruments that have undergone insufficient processing or during surgical operations.

Some types of staphylococci are part of the microflora of the body, do not manifest themselves in any way before the onset of favorable conditions. The reasons for the activation of infection of the processes of active reproduction are: exacerbation chronic diseases, nervous tension, decreased immunity. Risk groups for the development of purulent-inflammatory diseases include:

pregnant women;
patients with different forms immunodeficiency, including AIDS or HIV;
people with endocrine disorders- diabetes mellitus, hypo- or hyperthyroidism;
elderly patients;
people with a burdened allergic history.

The reasons

The infection can enter the body of a healthy person through wounds or scratches on the skin, during medical procedures or due to contact with a sick person. The impetus for the development of staphylococcal inflammation can be frequent colds, acute respiratory viral infections. ARI, SARS and influenza are considered especially dangerous. These diseases greatly weaken the body and require a long time to recover. full recovery its protective functions.

A number of predisposing factors can weaken the immune system:

frequent stress, nervous, emotional overstrain, fatigue;
problems with the thyroid gland;
malnutrition- the use of fast food, canned foods, too fatty foods;
non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene;
living in an ecologically unfavorable area;
long-term use of certain potent drugs, especially immunosuppressants and vasoconstrictors.

Kinds

Scientists separately identify some types of staphylococci that are more common and are considered the most dangerous for both adults and children:

Epidermal - a bacterium that affects the surface layer of the skin (epidermis). It provokes the appearance of acne, boils, carbuncles.
Saprophytic - a type of infection that affects the walls Bladder, mucous and skin around the genitals. It provokes the development of cystitis, pyelonephritis, urethritis, more often found in women than in men.
Hemolytic - a bacterium that causes infectious and inflammatory reactions in the body of an adult. It often causes complications of influenza, tonsillitis, inflammation of the tonsils.
Golden is one of the most dangerous varieties of gram-positive bacteria. Can provoke a wide range of diseases: from the lungs skin infections before brain damage.
Ear - a type of staphylococcus that affects inner ear. Able to spread to neighboring tissue. Characterized by purulent discharge from auricles, severe pain, fever.

Symptoms

In the presence of staph infection symptoms appear almost instantly. They largely depend on the location of the inflammatory process. All types of infections give the following signs of staphylococcus in adults:

local increase in body temperature (at the site of inflammation) or general fever;
symptoms of intoxication - loss of appetite, weakness, drowsiness, joint pain;
the presence of pustules on the surface of the skin or mucous membranes - boils, pyoderma, abscesses;
runny nose or cough with yellow, green, or purulent discharge;
the presence of mucus in the feces, stool disorder;
nausea, vomiting.

One of the frequent habitats of Staphylococcus aureus is the nasal cavity. Settling on the mucosa, the pathogen provokes the development of sinusitis, purulent rhinitis, sinusitis, frontal sinusitis with characteristic symptoms:

intoxication of the body - chills, weakness;
swelling and nasal congestion;
skin redness;
formations on the nasolabial folds and mucosa of pustules;
difficult breathing;
yellow or green discharge.

Often, staphylococcus is found in the throat, while the infection in adults can spread throughout the respiratory tract, causing diseases such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Infectious infection is accompanied by the presence the following signs:

sharp rise body temperature;
puffiness lymph nodes;
purulent plaque on the palate, tongue;
inflammation and redness of the tonsils, which makes it difficult to swallow;
dizziness, weakness;
hoarseness;
separation of purulent or greenish sputum;
loss of appetite.

If the causative agent is Staphylococcus aureus, a throat infection can worsen the condition of adults with chronic diseases of other organs. The risk group includes patients who have a history of problems with the lungs and heart. Without timely treatment this type of pathogen can provoke the development of complications such as purulent pneumonia, endocarditis, lung abscess.

The epidermal type of infection often affects the upper layers of the skin, provoking inflammatory and purulent processes. varying degrees severity, scalded skin syndrome. This view becomes common cause the development of complications after prosthetic limbs, the installation of shunts or heart valves. It is worth suspecting something is wrong and consulting a doctor in time if small bubbles with a cloudy liquid appear on the skin, eczema, dermatitis, become inflamed hair follicles.

When eating unwashed vegetables, fruits, berries, or if the rules of personal hygiene are not observed, harmful microorganisms can enter the stomach and intestines. The first symptoms may appear a few hours after eating or during the day. Intestinal staphylococcus in adults is manifested following symptoms:

nausea with frequent attacks vomiting;
stool disorder - diarrhea or, conversely, constipation;
pain in the abdomen;
flatulence of the intestine;
the presence of blood or pus in feces;
skin rashes.

Complications

In case of mass destruction internal organs, mucous or skin, a pathogenic microbe can cause generalized infection. The growth in the number of colonies often develops into pyoderma or an extensive purulent process. Treatment in this case is carried out exclusively in a hospital, under the strict supervision of a doctor, since without proper therapy a fatal outcome is possible. Frequent complications streptococcal infections are:

extensive phlegmon affecting adipose tissue;
toxic shock;
damage to the heart, lungs, brain;
soft tissue sepsis;
development of septicemia (blood poisoning);
exacerbation of diabetes rheumatoid arthritis and other chronic diseases;
the addition of other bacteria - streptococci, pneumococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and others.

Diagnostics

Considering that staphylococci are constantly present in the body of an adult and appear only when factors favorable for them occur, tests are prescribed after the onset of symptoms or patient complaints. During laboratory research, in addition to the type of bacteria, establish its sensitivity to the effects of antibiotics for the appointment of competent treatment. From diagnostic procedures preference is given to:

a blood test in case of suspected extensive infection;
skin scraping in the presence of dermatological symptoms;
analysis of feces for digestive disorders;
swab from the nose or throat, if there are problems with the respiratory tract;
urine analysis.

Treatment of staphylococcus in adults

Local forms of pathology respond well to treatment outside the hospital. Those patients who have a massive lesion of the skin, internal organs or there are complications are subject to hospitalization. The choice of the optimal treatment regimen depends on the location of the inflammatory process:

If adults have an epidermal type of pathogen, it is possible to carry out treatment without the use of antibacterial drugs surgically. The external abscess is opened, the doctor removes the pus. For the treatment of wounds, any liquid antiseptic is used - brilliant green, iodine.
Staphylococcus in the throat in adults is necessarily treated with the use of local funds in the form of ointments or liquid solutions for rinsing. The affected areas are treated with chlorophyllipt, eucalyptus tincture, vinylin (Shostakovsky's balm).
Staphylococcal dermatitis in adults involves taking antibiotics, the use of local antibacterial drugs - ointments, gels, sprays. The affected areas are regularly treated with hydrogen peroxide, brilliant green, ethyl alcohol. Vitamins are prescribed to restore immunity.

Treatment of Staphylococcus aureus in adults can be complicated by the fact that the pathogen is resistant to most types of antibiotics. In addition to measures to strengthen the immune system, the doctor prescribes drugs with bacteriophages - special viruses that can kill this type of microorganisms. Bactriophages are available as tablets, ointments, mouthwashes, or injections.

Antibiotic therapy

The first antibacterial drugs from the penicillin group were active against a large number of staphylococci, helped to successfully stop purulent processes and prevent the onset of sepsis. Over the years, pathogenic microorganisms have managed to develop resistance to this type of drug, so penicillins are rarely prescribed today. Antibiotics belonging to the tetracycline, lincosamide, cephalosporin groups and macrolides are considered first-line drugs. Often assigned:

Ceftriaxone is a 3rd generation antibiotic that belongs to the whole phasporin family. Available as a white powder or yellow color for preparation of injections. The drug acts on the inhibition of the cell walls of microorganisms. It is prescribed for joint damage, sepsis, meningitis, the presence infected wounds or burns. The antibiotic has a minimum of contraindications, but can cause multiple side effects, among which are frequent - headache, dizziness, allergies, anemia, indigestion.
Amoxiclav is a combined antibacterial drug. Available in powder and tablet form. The medicine is prescribed for diseases of the urinary tract, skin, joints, ENT organs. Amoxiclav is categorically contraindicated in violations of liver function, hypersensitivity to penicillin or amoxicillin. When taken, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, urticaria are possible. Amoxiclav analogues in composition - Augmentin, Oxacillin.
Ofloxacin is a 2nd generation fluoroquinol. Available in tablet form and eye drops. The drug inhibits the enzyme DNA-gyrase, causing the death of microorganisms. It is prescribed for bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis, pharyngitis, cystitis, pyelonephritis, meningitis. It is used with caution in atherosclerosis, disorders cerebral circulation. Ofloxacin often causes headache, dizziness, gastralgia, allergic reactions.
Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic. Available in the form of a white powder for the preparation of a solution for injections. Antibacterial agent blocks the synthesis cell membrane viruses, is able to change the permeability of the walls. Vancomycin is prescribed for sepsis, meningitis, diseases of the bones and joints. Due to the increased number of microorganisms that have developed resistance to its active ingredients, has been used very rarely in recent years.

Folk remedies

Recipes traditional medicine used only as aid aimed at strengthening the immune system. Some types of medicinal plants additionally have analgesic properties, they are able to quickly remove decay products from the body. Preference is given to medicinal preparations based on string, thyme, licorice root, plantain, rosehip. Alcohol tincture with propolis has proven itself well:

Take 3-4 tbsp. l. soft finely cut propolis.
Put on the bottom of a liter jar, fill up to the neck with any strong alcohol - alcohol, vodka, cognac.
Cover the container with a lid, remove to infuse in a dark place for 10-14 days.
Take at intestinal disorders before or during a meal, 20-30 ml. The course is 15–20 days.
For sore throat, sinusitis or sinusitis, use a tincture for rinsing.

Staphylococcus and pregnancy

Among different kind Pathogenic microorganisms as especially dangerous for pregnant women emit staphylococcus aureus. Due to the natural decrease in immunity, this type of bacteria easily penetrates the body, provoking inflammation of the bladder, kidney disease, exacerbation of infectious viral infections. Of particular danger is the golden subtype, because it is able to penetrate the placental barrier, leading to abnormalities in the development of the fetus, in some cases causing a miscarriage.

Pregnant women should be regularly tested for infection, even if none external signs there is no disease. In case of detection of a bacterium and the development of mass infection, the following treatment regimens are possible:

taking antibiotics;
the appointment of local anti-inflammatory drugs;
the use of drugs aimed at increasing immunity;
quartz treatment.

Prevention

It can be impossible to completely get rid of staphylococcus, so the key task of doctors is not the destruction of bacteria, but the prevention of the development of serious diseases. One of the main tasks of prevention is the observance of personal hygiene standards. Since the microorganism is easily transmitted by air, drop, household way, it is important to observe following rules:

eat only high-quality food - washed vegetables, fruits, berries, fresh food;
wash your hands every time after visiting public places and before meals;
treat wounds with brilliant green, peroxide, iodine;
take water only from clean proven sources, do not drink tap water;
expose hospital gowns to prolonged boiling, thoroughly steam after drying;
ventilate the room regularly wet cleaning at home.

Video

Health hazards lie in wait at every turn, not only for children, but also for adults. big group are diseases caused by harmful bacteria.

Staphylococcus aureus belongs to the species of spherical bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus aureus. Microorganisms are gram-positive - they retain pigmentation when washed by the Gram method.

The bacterium has the ability to persist on the mucous membranes and outer skin. It doesn't always cause disease. A person can simply be a carrier. There are up to 40% of such people on the entire globe.

Carriership can be of a different nature - permanent or transient. This circumstance is influenced by the state of the competing microflora, the type of strain and the health of the carrier. The existence of Staphylococcus aureus was discovered by the Scottish surgeon Alexander Ogston in 1880.

In 1884, the bacterium was described. The research was conducted by the German physician Ottomar Rosenbach, professor of therapy and pathology. The species is named for its appearance under a microscope. Most bacteria are colorless when viewed closely, and these microorganisms are colored in a golden hue.

Their color is provided by the presence of a coloring pigment from the group of carotenoids, located in the tissues of organisms. The length of the chromosome of staphylococcus is up to 1 micron, and it contains great amount genes - more than 2.5 thousand.

Cocci are immobile during their life cycle, attached to the epithelium in pairs or singly. By appearance their colonies resemble bunches of grapes, which is also reflected in the name of the genus (“stafula” in Greek means “bunch of grapes”).

Staphylococcus aureus does not form spores. Bacteria are very picky about environmental conditions. The optimum air temperature for their active development is 30-37 C, the acid-base balance should be neutral.

After the antibiotic penicillin was discovered, it was actively used in the fight against Staphylococcus aureus, and therefore the species mutated, developing resistance to the substance. Resistance is due to the content in bacteria of an enzyme that breaks down penicillin molecules, which is called penicillinase.

Currently, Staphylococcus aureus is fought by using another antibiotic - methicillin. The drug is a chemical modification of penicillin that bacteria cannot destroy.

However, in the process of ongoing natural selection, some strains have developed resistance to this drug. The existence of even more stable groups with vancomycin resistance and glycopeptide resistance has been established.

Causes and types of diseases, the mechanism of infection

Very often, infection occurs in a hospital setting.

Staphylococcus aureus is at the top of the list of pathogens that enter the body of patients while in hospital.

The spectrum of diseases caused by bacteria is striking in its diversity:

Skin infections - carbuncles, boils, phlegmon, folliculitis, bullous impetigo.
Respiratory tract infections - pneumonia, tonsillitis.
Infections of the central nervous system - meningitis, brain abscess, thrombophlebitis of the superficial veins of the brain.
Urinary tract infections - cystitis, urethritis.
Infections of bones, joints, muscular apparatus - osteomyelitis, purulent arthritis, purulent myositis.

The causes of staphylococcal infections include the following factors:

the presence of chronic diseases;
weakened immunity;
taking a large number of drugs;
avitaminosis;
frequent stress;
carrier infection;
living conditions that do not meet the standards of sanitation and epidemiology.

Infection with Staphylococcus aureus is a particular danger for both children and adults. Microorganisms are highly resistant to most drugs and adverse external factors.

A feature of this species is its ability to produce endotoxins that cause general intoxication of the body, with late medical intervention - sepsis and infectious-toxic shock.

Immunity to infectious pathogens is not developed, so there is no guarantee that once you pick up an infection and are cured, it will not be possible to get sick again.

The mechanism of penetration of Staphylococcus aureus into the human body consists of several stages:

Seeding. From external environment cocci enter the mucous membranes and skin. With the help of a special acid, they attach to the epithelium and begin to produce toxins.
Penetration through the epithelium and attachment to extracellular elements. Through intact skin and mucous membranes, bacteria are not able to get through. They penetrate inside in cases where the natural protective barriers of a person are damaged, and the excretory ducts of the glands are clogged. Staphylococci attach to molecules of fibrinogen, laminin, elastin, collagen and other tissues.
tissue destruction. In the process of life, Staphylococcus aureus produces a number of enzymes that create a favorable environment for it, and toxins that destroy the membranes of the cells of the human body.
Destruction of immune barriers. After staphylococcus enters the body, phagocytes, which are active defenders of the immune system, attack pests. Bacteria are able to resist their effects and destroy the phagocytic cells themselves. They can also penetrate into phagocytes and live in them.

Symptoms of infection

Staphylococcus aureus: bakposev

Penetrating into the body, Staphylococcus aureus causes the following symptoms in adults:

fast fatiguability;
general weakness;
lack of appetite;
aches in bones and joints;
and vomiting;
increase in body temperature.

it common features infection with harmful bacteria. Depending on the strength of the immune system and the resistance of the body systems, this list may be supplemented by other symptoms that more specifically indicate the type of disease.

Infections of the skin are characterized by rashes on the skin, the appearance of vesicles with purulent contents, crusts, redness, and seals.

With respiratory tract infections, nasal discharge, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath appear. Urinary tract infections are accompanied by painful urination, pain in the lumbar region.

Infections of bones, joints, muscular apparatus are accompanied by aching pains, hyperemia of the skin in the damaged area, the appearance of swelling, the release of pus through the skin.

Treatment Methods

Staphylococcus aureus is a dangerous coccus

In order to prescribe effective therapeutic procedures, you must first put accurate diagnosis patient.

To determine the presence of Staphylococcus aureus colonies in the body, analyze the composition of purulent secretions from the affected organs and tissues or biological fluids.

biological material from purulent abscess stained by the Gram method. As a result of research, a large number of cocci and neutrophils (leukocytes) are always found.

Colonies whose samples are positive for the presence of coagulase, catalase, thermonuclease enzymes can most likely be classified as Staphylococcus aureus.

Staphylococcus aureus is a spherical prokaryote, a bacterium of saturated yellow color, outwardly resembles a bunch of grapes, which can be clearly seen in the pictures taken under a microscope.

The microorganism is included in the group of conditionally pathogenic microflora - it is present in a small amount in the body of each person, it begins to actively grow and multiply in the presence of provoking factors. Staphylococcus aureus is a rather tenacious bacterium, tolerates the absence of water, high temperatures, does not immediately die even when boiled, it is not affected by alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, salt, vinegar. But the pathogenic microorganism can be destroyed with the help of ordinary brilliant green.

None of the doctors consensus regarding the carriage of staphylococcus, many doctors believe that it is useless to treat it if there are no manifestations of pathology. An exception is pregnant women, expectant mothers need to pass the appropriate tests, if pathogen urgent treatment will be given.

In children under one year old, Staphylococcus aureus should not normally be in the body.

What it is?

staph infection – common name for diseases caused by staphylococcus aureus. Due to the high resistance to antibiotics, staphylococcal infections rank first among purulent-inflammatory diseases. infectious diseases. Staphylococcus is able to cause an inflammatory process in almost any organ. Staphylococcus can be the cause of purulent diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue: boils, felons, abscesses, hidradenitis, pyoderma. Affecting internal organs, staphylococcus can cause pneumonia, tonsillitis, endocarditis, osteomyelitis, meningitis, abscesses of internal organs. Enterotoxin secreted by staphylococcus can cause severe food intoxication with the development of enterocolitis (inflammation of the small and large intestine).

The genus of staphylococci includes three species: Staphylococcus aureus (the most harmful), Staphylococcus epidermidis (also pathogenic, but much less dangerous than Staphylococcus aureus) and Staphylococcus saprophyta - practically harmless, however, also capable of causing diseases. In addition, each of the types of staphylococcus has several subspecies (strains) that differ from each other in various properties (for example, the set of toxins produced) and, accordingly, cause the same diseases that differ in clinic (manifestations). Under a microscope, staphylococci look like clusters of something similar to a bunch of grapes.

Staphylococci are distinguished by a rather high viability: up to 6 months they can be stored in a dried state, do not die during freezing and thawing, and are resistant to direct sunlight.

The pathogenic effect of staphylococci is associated with their ability to produce toxins: exfoliatin, which damages skin cells, leukocidin, which destroys leukocytes, and enterotoxin, which causes a food poisoning clinic. In addition, staphylococcus produces enzymes that protect it from the effects of immune mechanisms and contribute to its preservation and distribution in body tissues.

The source of infection can be a sick person or an asymptomatic carrier, according to some reports, up to 40% of healthy people are carriers of various strains of Staphylococcus aureus. Entrance gates of infection can be microdamages of the skin, mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. A significant factor in the development of staphylococcal infections is the weakening of the immune system against the background of the use of medications (for example, immunosuppressants, antibiotics), chronic diseases ( diabetes, thyroid disease), exposure to adverse factors environment. Due to the nature of the immune system, staphylococcal infections are most severe in children. early age and old people. Immunity after an infection is unstable and, in general, insignificant, since when meeting with a new subspecies of staphylococcus that produces other toxins, all previous immune “acquisitions” do not carry a significant protective role.

Causes of infection

Staphylococci constantly live on the skin and mucous membranes. Bacteria can enter the body in several ways: contact-household, airborne, alimentary:

With the contact-household method, the bacterium enters the body through household items. This is the most common route of infection transmission.
If the carrier of the bacteria coughs, sneezes, then the bacteria are released to the outside along with the air. As a result, when inhaling air contaminated with staphylococci, microorganisms enter the body and, with a decrease in immunity, provoke the development of diseases.
With the alimentary mechanism of infection, bacteria penetrate through food. Due to non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene, microorganisms appear on food. Usually carriers are workers in the food industry.

Pathogenic staphylococcus can enter the body when using insufficiently sterilized medical instruments. The infection enters the body during surgery or when using instrumental methods diagnostics, the introduction of a catheter, etc. If a pregnant woman has staphylococcus aureus, it is transmitted to the baby.

What diseases are caused by Staphylococcus aureus?

Staphylococcus aureus is capable of infecting most tissues of the human body. In total, there are more than a hundred diseases caused by a staphylococcal infection. Staphylococcal infections are characterized by the presence of many various mechanisms, pathways and transmission factors.

Staphylococcus aureus can very easily penetrate through minor damage to the skin and mucous membranes into the body. Staphylococcal infection can lead to a variety of conditions ranging from acne ( acne) and ending with peritonitis (inflammatory process of the peritoneum), endocarditis (inflammatory process of the inner lining of the heart) and sepsis, which is characterized by mortality in the region of 80%. In most cases, a staphylococcal infection develops against the background of a decrease in local or general immunity, for example, after an acute respiratory viral infection(ARVI).

Community-acquired pneumonia, which causes Staphylococcus aureus, are recorded infrequently, but in inpatient departments it is this type pathogenic staphylococci ranks second in importance among all pathogens (Pseudomonas aeruginosa is in the first place). Nosocomial or nosocomial infections can occur due to the penetration of Staphylococcus aureus through various catheters or from wound lesions of the skin into the body.

Staphylococcus aureus is the main causative agent of infections of the musculoskeletal system. This pathogenic bacterium in 75% of cases causes septic (infectious) arthritis in children and adolescents.

Staphylococcus aureus can cause the following diseases:

rhinitis;
sinusitis;
pharyngitis;
laryngitis;
bronchitis;
pneumonia;
osteomyelitis;
food poisoning;
pyoderma;
scalded baby syndrome.

Symptoms of Staphylococcus aureus

Specific clinical manifestations staphylococcal infections depend on the place of introduction of the microorganism and the degree of decrease in immunity in the patient. For example, in some people, infection ends with a simple boil, and in debilitated patients, with an abscess and phlegmon, etc.

Common symptoms characteristic of Staphylococcus aureus in adults:

fast fatiguability;
general weakness;
lack of appetite;
aches in bones and joints;
nausea and vomiting;
increase in body temperature.

These are common signs of infection with harmful bacteria. Depending on the strength of the immune system and the resistance of the body systems, this list may be supplemented by other symptoms that more specifically indicate the type of disease.

Damage to the skin

Infections of the skin are characterized by rashes on the skin, the appearance of vesicles with purulent contents, crusts, redness, and seals.

Infections of the ENT organs and eyes

Getting on the mucous epithelium of the throat or nose, staphylococcal infection provokes the occurrence of tonsillitis, otitis media, sinusitis and other inflammatory pathologies of the upper respiratory tract or upper respiratory tract.

With the defeat of Staphylococcus aureus, the lungs develop staphylococcal pneumonia, characterized by the appearance of shortness of breath and chest pain, severe intoxication of the body and the formation of lung tissues many purulent formations, gradually transforming into abscesses. When an abscess ruptures pleural cavity suppuration of the pleura (empyema) develops.

With damage to the mucous membrane of the eyes, conjunctivitis develops (photophobia, lacrimation, swelling of the eyelids, purulent discharge from the eyes).

Staphylococcus aureus affects the genitourinary system

Urinary tract infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus is characterized by:

urination disorder (increased frequency, soreness),
a slight fever (sometimes it may be absent),
the presence of pus, blood impurities and the detection of Staphylococcus aureus in general and bacteriological examination urine.

Without treatment, staphylococcus aureus can infect surrounding tissues (prostate gland, perirenal tissue) and cause pyelonephritis or form kidney abscesses.

CNS lesion

If Staphylococcus aureus enters the brain, it is likely to develop meningitis or a brain abscess. In children, these pathologies are extremely difficult and cases are not uncommon. lethal outcome. Typical symptoms:

intoxication syndrome;
hyperthermia;
severe vomiting;
positive meningeal symptoms;
rash appears on the skin.

food poisoning

It develops when eating contaminated or spoiled food and proceeds with symptoms of acute enterocolitis. Characterized by fever, nausea, vomiting up to 10 or more times a day, loose stools mixed with greenery.

Staphylococcus aureus - dangerous view bacteria that cause many infections when the patient's immune system is weakened. If you find the first general symptoms (lethargy, nausea, lack of appetite), you should immediately consult a doctor.

The defeat of the musculoskeletal system

This pathogen is the leading cause of purulent lesions of the musculoskeletal system (osteomyelitis and arthritis). Such pathological conditions develop more often in adolescents. In adults, staphylococcal arthritis often develops against the background of existing rheumatism or after joint replacement.

Why is Staphylococcus aureus dangerous?

Normally, Staphylococcus aureus lives on the skin and mucous membranes in almost all people. But healthy people with good immunity do not suffer from staphylococcal infection, since the normal microflora inhibits the growth of staphylococcus and does not allow its pathogenic essence to manifest. But when the body's defenses are weakened, the microbe "raises its head" and causes various diseases, up to blood poisoning or sepsis.

The high pathogenicity of Staphylococcus aureus is associated with three factors.

Firstly, the microorganism is highly resistant to antiseptics and environmental factors (can withstand boiling for 10 minutes, drying, freezing, ethanol, hydrogen peroxide, with the exception of "brilliant green").
Secondly, Staphylococcus aureus produces the enzymes penicillinase and lidase, which makes it protected from almost all antibiotics. penicillin series and helps to melt the skin, including sweat glands and penetrate deep into the body.
And thirdly, the microbe produces endotoxin, which leads to both food poisoning, and the syndrome of general intoxication of the body, up to the development of infectious-toxic shock.

And, of course, it should be noted that there is no immunity to Staphylococcus aureus, and a person who has had a staphylococcal infection can become infected with it again.

Staphylococcus aureus is especially dangerous for infants located in the maternity hospital. It is in hospitals that the concentration of this microbe in the environment is high, which attaches great importance to the violation of the rules of asepsis and sterilization of instruments and the carriage of staphylococcus among honey. personnel.

When is specific treatment needed?

Taking into account the peculiarities of the coexistence of the human body and Staphylococcus aureus, we can draw the following conclusion regarding the treatment of staphylococcal infection: it is necessary to treat staphylococcus only when a person has real symptoms of the disease, that is, an infection with specific manifestations. In this case, the patient is shown antibiotic therapy.

In all other situations, for example, when Staphylococcus aureus is carried in the respiratory tract or intestines, it is necessary to take measures to increase local and general immunity so that the body gradually clears itself of the unwanted “neighbor”. In addition, for rehabilitation use medicines:

staphylococcal bacteriophage (staphylococcal virus).
Chlorophyllipt (eucalyptus leaf extract) in various forms of release. If Staphylococcus aureus is detected in the throat, an alcohol solution of Chlorophyllipt diluted with water is used, as well as spray and tablets. For the sanitation of the nose in each nasal passage is instilled oil solution means, and when carried in the intestines, alcohol Chlorophyllipt is used orally.
ointment Bactroban with the carriage of staphylococcus aureus in the nose.

Treatment of Staphylococcus aureus

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

The most commonly used treatments are:

Amoxicillin, which is able to suppress the reproduction and growth of pathogenic bacteria, contribute to their destruction. It has a fairly wide spectrum of action and blocks the production of peptidoglycan. Used with or without food, no more than 1 g three times a day;
Cephalexin. The drug does not allow the synthesis of components that make up the bacterial cell wall. It must be taken before meals, every 6 hours;
Cephalotin, 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, does not allow them to multiply. Apply both intravenously and intramuscularly. The dosage is selected individually;
Vancomycin, promotes blocking of 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 aureus. Given intravenously, either every 6 or every 12 hours. The dosage is determined by the doctor;
Cloxacillin. Contributes to the blocking of 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 a wide range action, does not allow the components of the bacterial cell wall to be produced. Can be used both intravenously and intramuscularly, up to 4 times a day;
Oxacillin. Has a detrimental effect on late stages development of bacteria and contributes to their destruction. Used intravenously, intramuscularly and orally;
Clarithromycin, which prevents bacteria from making their own proteins. It is most commonly used in tablet form, although it may be given intravenously for severe infections;
Erythromycin also interferes with protein production, must be applied every 6 hours;
Clindamycin is also aimed at eliminating the ability of bacteria to produce a certain protein, which leads to its death.

Before starting to use this or that remedy, it is necessary to conduct an antibiogram. This will help to identify the sensitivity of staphylococcus to a specific medicinal product. Conducting such a study is relevant for the health of the patient, this will guarantee that the bacterium does not develop resistance.

Any antibacterial agents can be prescribed exclusively by the attending doctor and only after a thorough diagnosis.

Treatment of staphylococcal infection requires strict adherence to the frequency of administration, the time of use of the drug and its dosage. It is important to take the prescribed antibiotic not until the first symptoms disappear, and not less than 5 days. If it is necessary to extend the course, the doctor will inform about it. In addition, you can not stop treatment, therapy must be continuous.

Antibiotic resistance

Since the discovery of penicillin and its active use against staphylococcus, under the pressure of natural selection, a mutation has been established in the population, due to which most strains are currently resistant to this antibiotic, due to the presence of penicillinase in Staphylococcus aureus, an enzyme that breaks down the penicillin molecule.

To combat the bacterium, methicillin is widely used - a chemically modified penicillin that penicillinase does not destroy. But now there are strains that are also resistant to methicillin, and therefore strains of Staphylococcus aureus are divided into methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), even more resistant strains are also distinguished: vancomycin-resistant (VRSA) and glycopeptide-resistant (GISA).

The bacterium has about 2600 genes and 2.8 million base pairs of DNA in its chromosome, which is 0.5-1.0 µm long.

For the treatment of staphylococcus, a staphylococcal bacteriophage is used - the drug is a liquid medium in which there are phage viruses that destroy staphylococci.

In 2008, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) established an active, pronounced inhibitory effect on methicillin-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus of copper and copper alloy surfaces.

Surgery

Skin and soft tissue infections

Of paramount importance is the drainage of all purulent foci. For small abscesses without fever in children, drainage alone may be sufficient, as antibiotic treatment may be equivalent to adequate drainage. Subcutaneous drainage has been proven to be more effective than incision and drainage.

Osteomyelitis

Surgical treatment is usually indicated to remove purulent contents from the subperiosteal space or in the presence of an infected foreign body.

Septic arthritis

In junior childhood septic arthritis of the hip or shoulder is an indication for emergency surgical intervention. Joints should be drained as soon as possible to prevent bone destruction. If adequate drainage with a needle preceded, but there is a large amount of fibrin, destroyed tissues, then surgical intervention is also necessary.

Endocarditis

If endocarditis is associated with foreign body, then it needs to be removed.

toxic shock syndrome

All potential foci of infection should be identified and drained.

Thrombophlebitis

Remove an infected intravenous device in immunocompromised or critically ill patients when the infection cannot be controlled medically.

Diet and nutrition

With a staphylococcal infection, it is important not only to suppress the activity of the pathogen, but also to increase immunity. Diet is important in this process. The main role in the opposition to staphylococcus is given to lysozyme. With its lack, it will be difficult to get rid of the pathology.

Diet should be diversified rich in vitamins, protein and carbohydrates. Fiber is also essential as it helps to flush out toxins from the body. The menu is made up of the following products:

Proteins (meat, poultry, cheese, cottage cheese, fish).
Carbohydrates (buckwheat, potatoes, durum pasta, wheat).
Fiber (raw and baked vegetables).
Vegetable proteins (nuts, lentils, beans).
Vegetable fats.

The consumption of salt, spices and fats of animal origin is reduced as much as possible.

Prevention

To avoid staphylococcal infection, it is necessary to strengthen the immune system - eat right, exercise regularly, take vitamin complexes, get rid of bad habits, do not forget about hardening and daily walks in the fresh air.

Basic Precautions:

get vaccinated against staphylococcus in a timely manner;
observe hygiene rules, wash hands and face often and thoroughly;
wash all vegetables and fruits thoroughly;
buy dairy, meat products only in trusted places, study the terms and conditions of storage on the label;
do not eat food on the street;
even minor scratches should be immediately treated with antiseptic solutions;
do not use other people's toiletries and bedding.

Any contact with people who have signs of a staph infection should be avoided. It is better for women to be tested for the presence of pathogenic bacteria at the stage of pregnancy planning in order to prevent the risk of infection of the child.

Forecast

The prognosis depends on the localization of the pathological focus of staphylococcal infection, the severity of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment.

With mild lesions of the skin and mucous membranes, the prognosis is almost always favorable. With the development of bacteremia with damage to internal organs, the prognosis deteriorates sharply, since in more than half of the cases such conditions end in death.

This microorganism is normally present on the skin of almost every person. Usually it does not pose a danger to humans, but under certain circumstances it can cause severe infections that are extremely difficult to cure. It is important for patients to know how and how to treat Staphylococcus aureus, this will help to start on time. effective therapy and avoid negative consequences.

What is Staphylococcus aureus? This microorganism is present in the body of a large number of people. Staphylococcus aureus is an element normal microflora person.

In the nasopharynx, it is present in about half of the world's population, on the skin - in almost everyone.

Normally, this pathogen is not dangerous, but with a significant weakening of the body, its uncontrolled reproduction occurs, which is the cause of severe infectious diseases.

The danger of these diseases lies in the high resistance of Staphylococcus aureus to antibacterial drugs, resistance to aggressive environmental factors.

In this case, the pathogen produces toxins that can cause state of shock in a patient. For this reason, patients with diseases caused by Staphylococcus aureus are at high risk, including the development of a fatal outcome.

What does it look like in the throat and nose

The bacterium is a common cause of inflammatory processes in the nasopharynx. It is found in the throat much more often than in the nasal passages. The bacterium is located on the tonsils in the form of a white plaque or small rounded pustules that can merge into larger foci.

In the nasal cavity, the pathogen is also usually found in the form of small clusters of a light shade, which is clearly visible in the photo of patients. But, as already pointed out, this does not happen so often, usually bacteria are diagnosed on the tonsils.

What is dangerous Staphylococcus aureus

As mentioned above, the pathogen is primarily dangerous due to its high resistance to antibacterial drugs of the penicillin series. This process is achieved by the production of special enzymes by bacteria that cause the destruction of the pharmacological substance.

Resistivity Represents big problem for doctors, because it poses a difficult task for them to select effective therapy.

What else is dangerous Staphylococcus aureus? It does not die during prolonged boiling, at very low and high temperatures. This bacterium able to survive after treatment with antiseptics such as hydrogen peroxide and alcohol. Staphylococcus dies only after exposure to a solution of brilliant green.

Pathogen toxins can penetrate very deep into the human body, affect a large number of organs, causing the development of infectious toxic shock. This condition is extremely dangerous, such patients often die, since it is almost impossible to find an effective therapy.

An unpleasant factor is that patients do not develop immunity and the risk reinfection also very large.

Characteristic symptoms

Symptoms of pathology in adults and children are practically no different. The only difference can be that in younger patients, the disease is more likely to be more severe. This is due to the fact that their immune system is more vulnerable.

In children

In adults

Signs of staphylococcus in adults are no different from those in children. In general, this infection is always clinically manifested by a typical respiratory infection, which is difficult to treat with penicillin antibiotics and can turn into severe generalized lesions.

How is it transmitted

Almost half of the world's population is a carrier of this microorganism, so the risk of infection is quite high for each person. How is Staphylococcus aureus transmitted? The pathogen enters the human body through skin covering and mucous membranes. The microorganism can be introduced in the following ways:

It is important to note that great importance It has general state patient. In the presence of severe comorbidities, the risk of infection is greatly increased. In case of violation of the immune system, endocrine diseases patients are the most vulnerable.

This is also observed in injuries, hypovitaminosis, during pregnancy and lactation, in a state of prolonged stress. The age of the patient matters - the elderly and children are persons with weaker defense mechanisms therefore, they are much more likely to be infected with this bacterium.

Methods of treatment

Before starting treatment, it is necessary to make a scraping from the pathology zone and determine the sensitivity of the microorganism to antibacterial drugs. Only on the basis of the results obtained, the tactics of therapy are determined.

It is important for patients to know which doctor treats a staph infection. Therapy is carried out by specialists therapeutic profile, usually a doctor general practice. With various complications, various specialists of a narrow profile are involved in the treatment.

In adults

You can get rid of staphylococcus in the body with the help of ampicillin in combination with clavulanic acid. Vancomycin, Erythromycin, Azithromycin or Cefalexin tablets are also used.

You can lubricate the foci of infection in the nose with an antibacterial nasal ointment, treat them with antiseptics, rinse with drugs such as Polydex or salt drops.

Antihistamine drugs (Loratadin), vitamin complexes, immunomodulators are used. In case of ineffectiveness of this tactic, we are talking about the appointment of a special vaccine or toxoid.

In children

Antibiotic treatment is also used for children. In general, the tactics of therapy in young patients are no different from those in adults. Caution should be observed in the dosages of drugs, for this group of patients they are calculated depending on body weight, which requires care on the part of the doctor when determining how to treat Staphylococcus aureus in children. This process is always labor intensive.

Medicines

Treatment of staph infection complex, using a large number of drugs. In addition to antibacterial drugs, patients are prescribed bacterial lysates that stimulate the activation of the patient's immune system.

Staphylococcal toxoid and immunoglobulin are also used, which are administered intramuscularly. These drugs contribute to the development of specific immunity against this microorganism, which kills Staphylococcus aureus.

There is also a special vaccine, the effect of which is similar to that of previous drugs. These drugs are prescribed to patients in case of ineffectiveness of other means, if there is a risk of serious complications.

Folk remedies

Folk remedies and methods for the treatment of Staphylococcus aureus are widely used. Patients need to be aware that this type of therapy is used in combination with medications and only after consulting the attending physician. The use of these methods exclusively is unacceptable, since the patient may worsen his situation.

Can be used following recipes folk medicine:

It is also important to note that apricot pulp is capable of destroying not only staphylococcus itself, but also other pathological microorganisms that may be in the area of pathology.

Conclusion

It is important for patients to know the symptoms and treatment of Staphylococcus aureus. This will help to identify the symptoms of a pathological lesion in time and consult a doctor. It is important for patients to pay a visit to a specialist to determine the sensitivity of the pathogen to drugs, because such a person is in danger and a small inflammatory process can lead to very severe complications.