Staphylococcus is a species of bacteria that are spherical in shape and capable of producing pathogenic enzymes and toxins that disrupt the functioning of body cells. In addition, the same term is used to understand a particular disease that is caused by these bacteria. This is one of the most common infectious diseases, affecting the respiratory tract, skin, digestive system, bone tissue and other organs and systems of our body. Especially dangerous are these bacteria in children during the period of newborn and breast-feeding. As staphylococcus is manifested in infants , all parents should know, because some forms of this disease require urgent hospitalization.
Signs of staphylococcus in infants
Consider the signs of staphylococcus in newborns, in order to be able to help the kid in time:
- eruptions in the form of acne on the skin of the baby;
- suppuration in the wound, even very small (scratches, abrasions), or pustules in the body;
- carbuncles or boils (most often in a spout);
- pneumonia;
- meningitis;
- sepsis;
- stomatitis;
- conjunctivitis;
- an increase in the body temperature of crumbs to 38.8 and above, coupled with apathy and lethargy (which characterizes the deterioration of the overall condition of the baby);
- a digestive disorder that manifests itself in the form of vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and a decrease in appetite.
It is important to know that such manifestations are very diverse, because the microorganism under consideration is considered a conditional causative agent of many diseases. If any signs of staphylococcus are found in infants, it is urgent to call a doctor at home, since the earlier treatment begins, the more effective it will be.
The danger of developing staphylococcal infection in the smallest is due to the fact that its development, like any other disease, can be lightning fast. In addition, an increase in body temperature is an additional danger, since such crumbs have not yet developed the mechanism of thermoregulation, and their body is extremely difficult to normalize the temperature.
Establishing diagnosis
As a rule, the following laboratory methods are used to diagnose the infectious disease in question:
- bacteriological culture, the material for which is taken from the wound, mucous, from the surface of the skin or checked blood and feces;
- serological analysis of serum to detect antibodies to infection;
- a polymerase chain reaction method for the detection of DNA molecules of a bacterium;
- taking for analysis of mother's breast milk .