Question

Describe a disease associated with Staphylococcus aureus and explain why infections with this pathogen can be difficult to treat.

Answer 1

Staphylococcus aureus is a gram positive bacteria which is round in shape. It is most commonly found on the skin and upper respiratory tract.

A disease caused by staphylococcus aureus is cellulitis.

• It is a serious skin infection.
• Bacteria gains entry into the skin through cracks or pores.
• It most commonly occurs on the skin of the lower leg.
• The affected area appears swollen, reddish in colour and painful on pressing it.
• Precipitating factors include diabetes, obesity, weekend immune system etc.
• It can be treated with antibiotics such as Amoxicillin, Cephalexin in combination with penicillin.

Infections with this pathogen can be difficult to treat as the pathogen has developed antibiotic resistance.