Symptoms of a Staph Skin Infection

Staph, or staphylococcus, is a common bacterium that causes skin infections. It causes these infections by direct colonization of the tissues and by the production of a toxin. It can also cause bacteremia, or blood-borne infection; meningitis; pneumonia; and bone infections. It characteristically forms abscesses at the site of infection. The skin is the most common site of infection, and can present in several ways.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a superficial skin infection. The skin becomes red and tense, spreading in streaks. This can progress to impetigo, where the skin forms a honey-colored rash; bullae, which are large blisters which contain fluid or pus; and deep-seated abscesses. Abscess can be treated with oral antibiotics, but occasionally they will need intravenous antibiotics, and/or surgical drainage.

Staphylococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome

In this condition, staph releases a toxin which can lead to decreased blood pressure and failure of multiple organs. The skin becomes sun-burned red. This condition is associated with women using tampons, childbirth and after certain procedures.

Satphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome

This is also a toxin-mediated illness. A flat, red, tender rash appears over the skin, which eventually leads to bulla formation and desquamation, in which the skin sloughs off. This predisposes the patient to increased fluid loss and potential infection with other bacteria. Most patients heal without scarring of the skin.

Other Skin Manifestations

Staph can cause infections of the nail, the eyelid and the belly button in newborns. It can also cause wound infections.