Staphylococcal infections ( /ˈstæfɪləkɒkəl ɪnˈfɛkʃənz/ ) are caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. This infection can affect the skin, soft tissues, bones, and can even lead to sepsis or toxic shock syndrome. The word "staphylococcal" is spelled with a "staph-" prefix (meaning "bunch of grapes") followed by the combining form "-coccus" (meaning "sphere"). Phonetically, the pronunciation is "staf-i-lo-kaw-kuhl in-fek-shuhns." Early diagnosis and proper treatment are important to prevent complications from this infection.
Staphylococcal infections refer to a broad range of bacterial infections caused by the presence and colonization of Staphylococcus bacteria, commonly Staphylococcus aureus. These infections can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, respiratory tract, and internal organs, and can vary in severity from mild to life-threatening.
Staphylococcus bacteria are typically present on the skin and mucous membranes in a significant proportion of the population without causing any harm. However, under certain conditions, they can penetrate the body and cause infections. Factors that increase the risk of developing staphylococcal infections include weakened immune system, poor personal hygiene, broken skin, and the presence of medical devices like catheters or surgical incisions.
Symptoms of staphylococcal infections vary depending on the affected area and may include boils or abscesses on the skin, swollen and painful joints, pneumonia-like symptoms such as cough and difficulty breathing, urinary tract infections, and bloodstream infections that can lead to sepsis. In severe cases, untreated staphylococcal infections can result in life-threatening conditions such as toxic shock syndrome.
Diagnosis of staphylococcal infections typically involves a physical examination, review of medical history, and laboratory tests such as culture and sensitivity testing of infected tissues or fluids. Treatment often involves antibiotics tailored to the specific strain of Staphylococcus causing the infection. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to drain abscesses or remove infected tissue.
Prevention of staphylococcal infections involves practicing good personal hygiene, thorough handwashing, keeping wounds clean and covered, avoiding sharing personal items, and proper sterilization of medical equipment.
The word "Staphylococcal" is derived from the Greek words "staphylē" meaning "bunch of grapes" and "kokkos" meaning "berry". This is because the staphylococcal bacteria form clusters that resemble bunches of grapes when viewed under a microscope.
The term "infections" is derived from the Latin word "infectio", which means "to contaminate" or "to stain". In the context of medical terminology, "infections" refers to the invasion and multiplication of pathogens in the body, leading to disease or illness.
Therefore, "Staphylococcal Infections" refers to the contagious diseases or illnesses caused by the staphylococcal bacteria.