Pathogens
Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA)

Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA)

General Information

Gram positive cocci in clusters, coagulase positive.

Staph aureus is a common microorganism that colonizes the skin/nares and can cause invasive disease.

  • Pyogenic skin and soft tissue infection
  • Cellulitis
  • Endocarditis
  • Abscess
  • Septic arthritis
  • Infection of prosthetic devices
  • Osteomyelitis
  • Pneumonia
  • Empyema
  • Others

Toxin mediated diseases:

  • Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome
  • Staphylococcal food poisoning
  • Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome

Any localized S. aureus infection can become invasive and lead to bacteremia.

Infectious disease consultation recommended for all invasive infections.