Staphylococcus aureus Skin and Soft Tissue Infections.

Skin and soft tissue infections are common ambulatory infections. Among purulent (suppurative) skin infections, Staphylococcus aureus is responsible for the vast majority. Incision and drainage is a critical part of treatment and adjunctive antibiotics further increase cure rates. Given the rise of antibiotic-resistant S aureus, empiric antibiotics should include coverage for local circulating S aureus strains. Treatment duration is typically 7 days after surgical drainage, assuming adequate clinical response. This article summarizes diagnosis, surgical, and antibiotic management of S aureus skin infections.