Staph Infections

Diagnosis

A staph infection is diagnosed by finding the bacteria in pus, tissue samples or body fluids, including blood and urine. For infections affecting the skin, your healthcare professional will examine any sores or areas of concern. Symptoms such as fever can help guide treatment decisions.

Imaging tests may be used to detect complications caused by a staph infection. These tests may include an MRI scan or a CT scan. An echocardiogram, which is an imaging test for the heart, also may be recommended in some situations.

Treatment

Treatment for staph infections involves removing the cause and using antibiotics to kill the bacteria. Serious infections may require additional care to manage symptoms and support the body.

If the infection involves a medical device, such as a urinary catheter, cardiac pacemaker or artificial joint, the device may need to be removed. Removal may require surgery depending on the type of device. For skin infections caused by staph, you may be told to wash the affected area and apply medicine directly to it.

To drain deep pockets of pus, placing a clean, warm cloth over the area may help. In some cases, a healthcare professional may need to drain the fluid. Your healthcare team also may recommend removing infected tissue.

Your healthcare professional may select an antibiotic based on where the infection is located. The specific strain of staph bacteria may be identified to help determine which antibiotics are most effective. Staph bacteria can adapt, and many strains have become resistant to one or more antibiotics. For this reason, more than one antibiotic may be needed to clear an infection. Serious infections may require taking multiple antibiotics at the same time.

Antibiotics may be taken by mouth, such as cephalexin or doxycycline. Others are given through a vein, called intravenous antibiotics. Examples include cefazolin, nafcillin and vancomycin. If you are prescribed oral antibiotics, take them exactly as directed and finish the full course. Ask your healthcare professional which symptoms might indicate that the infection is getting worse.

Treatment for food poisoning caused by staph bacteria does not include antibiotics. Most people recover within a day. However, vomiting, diarrhea or nausea may prevent some people from getting enough fluids. If too much fluid is lost, intravenous fluid replacement may be needed to restore hydration.

Very serious staph infections, such as toxic shock syndrome, may require additional support for the body. This can include breathing support, fluids through a vein or antibodies that help the immune system remove the infection.