How Can Staph Cause a Lung Infection?
Initial Infection Staph infections of the lungs are quite rare relative to the other types of staph infection. The cause of almost all staph infections, including staph lung infections, is a bacterium named Staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococcus aureus or S. aureus can live on human skin and in the nose, forming what are called colonies. By themselves, these colonies do not represent an infection. Infection typically takes place when the skin has been compromised by injury, such as an abrasion, cut or burn, allowing S. aureus a foothold in the body. In an otherwise healthy body, these infections tend to be minor in nature and the body can cope with the infection itself or with the assistance of antibiotics. Problems, such as S. aureus lung infections, tend to arise in those with bodies that are otherwise not healthy. Compromised Systems In some cases, S. aureus can get into the bloodstream and cause a significant infection. This type of infection is most likely to occur in a hospital se
