Which diagnostic methods confirm the diagnosis of staphylococcal infection?
Staph infections are caused by staphylococcus bacteria.
These types of germs are commonly found on the skin or in the nose of many healthy people. Most of the time, these bacteria cause no problems or cause relatively minor skin infections. But staph infections can turn deadly if the bacteria invade deeper into your body, entering your bloodstream, joints, bones, lungs or heart.
The symptoms of the infection are diverse, the degree of the symptomatic course and signs depend on the severity and location of the infection.
To diagnose a staph infection, your health care provider typically will:
- Perform a physical exam. During the exam, your provider examines any skin sores or reddened areas you may have. Your provider can also review any other symptoms.
- Blood test
- Urine test
- Skin examination
- Echocardiogram - this test can check if the infection has affected your heart.
- Your provider may order other imaging tests, depending on your symptoms and the exam results.
Treatment of a staph infection may include:
- Antibiotics.
- Wound drainage.
- Device removal. If your infection involves a medical device, such as a urinary catheter, cardiac pacemaker or artificial joint, prompt removal of the device may be needed. For some devices, removal might require surgery.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/staph-infections/diagnosis-
treatment/drc-20356227
