Staphylococcus aureus
Staphylococcus aureus
Staphylococcus aureus (pronounced: staf-uh-lo-KOK-us OR-ee-us) is a type of bacteria that is often found in the nose and on the skin of people. It is known for causing a range of illnesses, from minor skin infections to life-threatening diseases such as pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.
Etymology
The name Staphylococcus aureus comes from the Greek words "staphyle," meaning a bunch of grapes, and "kokkos," meaning a berry. This is due to the grape-like clusters that these bacteria form. "Aureus" is Latin for golden, which refers to the golden color of the colonies of this bacterium.
Description
Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive, round-shaped bacterium that is a member of the Firmicutes phylum. It is a facultative anaerobe that can grow without the need for oxygen. It is also capable of surviving on dry surfaces, making it a common contaminant in the hospital environment.
Diseases caused
Staphylococcus aureus is responsible for various diseases. It can cause minor skin infections such as boils, impetigo, cellulitis, and folliculitis. More serious infections can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, osteomyelitis, endocarditis, toxic shock syndrome, and sepsis. It is also one of the causes of hospital-acquired infections.
Treatment
Treatment for Staphylococcus aureus infections depends on the type and severity of the infection. Antibiotics are commonly used, but the bacterium has developed resistance to many of these drugs, including methicillin, leading to the term MRSA.
Prevention
Prevention of Staphylococcus aureus infections involves good hygiene practices such as regular hand washing, keeping wounds clean and covered, and not sharing personal items like towels or razors.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Staphylococcus aureus
- Wikipedia's article - Staphylococcus aureus
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