What is staphylococcus epidermis?
Staphylococcus epidermis is a bacteria that is normal for the human body. It is a gram positive bacteria, which can cause infections in the elderly, newborns and intravenous drug users. Infection usually occurs when the innate immune defenses are penetrated by a foreign body.FeaturesStaphylococcus epidermis produces a slime that allows it to adhere to cells. The slime also gives the bacteria resistance to the immune function and certain antibiotics.TypesThere are 24 strains of staphylococcus epidermis on the human body. Each can survive for hours on dry surfaces.RisksStaphylococcus epidermis infections are associated with medical implants such as heart valves, shunts, prosthetic joints and catheters.DiseasesInfections can lead to urinary tract infections, septicemia and endocarditis. Symptoms include painful urination, fever, headache and fatigue.TreatmentStaphylococcus epidermis is treated with the antibiotics vancomycin or rifampin. Other antibiotics such as methicillin and novobioci