Types of Staph Infections

Staph infections are caused by staphylococcus bacteria. Staph is often present on the skin without causing harm. It spreads easily, either by touching a contaminated object or from skin-to-skin contact. This type of infection usually begins at the site of a small wound, which provides an entry point for the bacteria. Staph infections can range from a small, pus-like bubble to a potentially life-threatening, skin-eating bacteria. These infections can manifest themselves in many ways on the skin, and some even attack internal organs and bones.

Cellulitis

• This type of staph infection primarily attacks the legs, though it can affect other parts of the body, too. This skin infection starts as a rash that appears swollen and red. In addition, the affected area feels warm and can hurt when touched. What's dangerous is how fast cellulitis can spread throughout the body, and if it reaches the lymph nodes, it can become a life-threatening illness.

Furuncles

• Furuncles look like a cross between a nipple and a pimple and can appear anywhere on your skin. This small boil begins to emerge when a hair follicle is damaged, allowing bacteria to enter your body. The boil fills with pus and dead tissue. The good news is these pea-shaped bumps usually pop and drain on their own. If they have not gone away after two weeks, you might need to see a doctor or specialist to get rid of them.

Carbuncles

• Carbuncles are similar to furuncles in that they are filled with pus and dead skin tissue. The problem is these sores become much bigger, sometimes golf ball sized. In this case, several boils have joined together. Carbuncles can be highly contagious, so family and friends should be careful not to get close to the sores. Also like the furuncle, carbuncles sometimes pop and drain on their own.

Impetigo

• Children ages 2 to 6 are especially vulnerable to impetigo. This disease looks like blisters, mainly on the hands and face. Eventually, the sores develop a crusty layer that looks yellow or brown. It takes direct contact with a person who has the disease to contract it. There's a high incidence among children who play contact sports.

Other Types of Staph Infections

• Pneumonia and meningitis actually can be forms of staph infections, only they manifest internally. Osteomyelitis is a staph infection that attacks the bones. Endocarditis, a staph infection of the heart lining, is considered very serious if not treated early. Toxic Shock Syndrome, as it pertains to staph, can occur with the use of super absorbent tampons. And mastitis, a staph infection of the breast, typically occurs in women who are breast feeding.