S

taphylococcus bacteria are prevalent all around us. There are over thirty species of the bacteria that exist today that are found on both healthy skin, and also within mucous membranes of the body. In each species, there are two strains, the coagulase positive or coagulase negative staph. The difference between coagulase-negative and coagulase positive is the constitution of the bacteria and the ways it can affect the body of an individual.

Staphylococcus bacteria cells are present in many sick and even healthy adults. This is a highly contagious bacterium that is easily transferred from person to person by direct skin-to-skin contact. The bacteria has the ability to form clusters on solid materials, such as bench tops, door handles, utensils and other objects within the home or medical setting which are then passed to those who come into contact with those objects. The deadliest form of this kind of bacteria is called the methicillin resistant staph aureus.This strain is resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics, which is why it is one of the most dangerous forms of the bacteria. Once this strain gains access to the internal organs of the body, through a cut or opening in the skin, it can lead to serious health complications or even death.

Initially, MRSA infections present themselves as impetigo, folliculitis and cellulitis on the skin. Once the bacteria enters the bloodstream, infections such as endocarditis, pericarditis, osteomyelitis and lung abscesses can occur. Since the bacteria is resistant to antibiotics, curing, preventing further spread and managing the infection becomes a priority.

On the other hand, coagulase-negative staph infections can occur. These are called as such because of the productive capacity to produce coagulase. Coagulase affects fibrinogen, which is an important factor for blood clotting. The coagulase-negative staph infections are not very virulent, meaning not too contagious, but for certain risk groups, the presence of these kinds of bacteria will prove to have a difficult time in recovery. There are two types of staph species that are coagulase-negative and these are staph epidermidis and staph saprophyticus. These kinds of coagulase negative often are associated with infections from invasive catheters and other prosthetics that come in contact with the skin. Another known issue involving coagulase-negative staph infections is prosthetic valve endocarditis.

If left untreated, coagulase negative staph infections can result in many crippling diseases. Long-term, immunosuppressant occurs, as the staph strain is multi resistant to antibiotics. A community of other infections occurs when the coagulase-negative staph enters the soft organs of the body. Urinary tract infections and cystitis occurs, especially with women who are often at a higher level of risk.

As can be seen, even if coagulase-negative staph infections are not too common, they have taken on the antibiotic resistant characteristics of MRSA. This becomes alarming because it proves that the bacteria is constantly mutating and adapting to antibiotics and medical treatment.

In order to prevent the infection from occurring, it is critical the correct hygiene and cleanliness is a consideration at all times. This includes thorough disinfecting and proper disposal of wound dressings. This will ensure containment of the bacteria and prevent any further potential spread.

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