Treatment of staphylococcus aureus in the throat. Throat and nose swab for staphylococcus: norm, interpretation Pathogenic staphylococcus throat swab

A swab is taken from the throat and nose for staphylococcus aureus in order to determine the causative agents of an infectious disease. Also, with the help of bacteriological research, the amount of pathogenic microflora, its sensitivity to certain types of medications are determined. The results of the tests help the doctor choose the most appropriate therapy.

The need for research

When staphylococcus aureus appears in the nose, it cannot be detected with the naked eye during a routine examination, only a microbiological examination is needed to identify the problem. Patients with rhinitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis are sent for tests. Sowing helps to study the ratio of microflora in the nose and throat.

In addition to the presence of pathologies and complaints, a planned examination of this type is necessary for the following categories of the population:

pregnant women;
employees of medical institutions;
employees of educational institutions (schools, kindergartens);
employees of places of public catering and food trade;
patients scheduled for surgery.

Prerequisites for diagnosis

Suspicion of staphylococcus may arise not only in the presence of diseases of the upper respiratory tract. In total, more than 30 species of this microorganism are known, which can affect absolutely all organs and organ systems. Not only an ENT can send a patient for analysis, but also a gastroenterologist, mammologist, infectious disease specialist, urologist, therapist.

It is advisable to take a swab from the nose or throat if you suspect such violations:

angina, which can be provoked by beta-hemolytic streptococcus;
streptococcus aureus, which causes ulcers on the skin and mucous membranes;
suspicion of diphtheria, meningococcal infection or whooping cough;
mononucleosis, laryngitis and abscesses that are located near the tonsils.

Preparatory procedures

Before submitting a culture for the detection of staphylococcus aureus, the patient was prescribed a complete abolition of all antibacterial and antiseptic drugs. Treatment of the nose and pharynx with drugs is completed 2 weeks before the day of the material sampling. Otherwise, the result may be distorted. The problem of diagnosis is that during the time when any treatment is prohibited, bacteria can move to nearby healthy organs and infect them.

When 8 hours remain for the study, it is completely forbidden to eat food, water and other liquids, brush your teeth, and chew gum. As a rule, sowing is taken in the early morning, therefore, preparation for the procedure does not provide any inconvenience to the patient.

Material sampling

To find out the presence or absence of staphylococci in the flora, their type and type, you need to correctly take the contents of the nose and oropharynx. If sowing is done from the nose, the patient is seated on a chair and his head is thrown back. Before inserting the instrument, mucus is removed from the passages, if any, and treated with an alcohol solution (70%). After that, a sterile roller is inserted alternately into the right and left nostrils. It is important that the health worker firmly presses it against the walls of the tissues, this will help to collect the required amount of material.

When sowing is taken from the pharynx, the patient's head is thrown back high. With a special spoon, his tongue is held down so that you can get to the pharynx. With the help of the instrument, mucus is taken.

After the material is selected, it is placed together with the roller in sterile test tubes. The containers contain a special solution that prevents the death of bacteria within 2 hours, it is in this time period that all research should be carried out.

under the microscope

Based on the appearance of bacteria, conclusions can be drawn about their number and morphological properties. To conduct the study, the material must be fixed in a glass slide and stained according to Gram. This will make it possible to understand which microorganisms are contained in the patient's mucus.

When studying, you can get the following information:

accumulations of gram-positive cocci, resembling grapes in appearance, indicate the presence of staphylococcus aureus;
the presence of streptococcal infection is evidenced by positive staining and the paired arrangement of cocci or their formation in the form of a chain;
the presence of gram-negative cocci means the presence of Neisseria;
rounded tips and light capsules of gram-negative bacteria - a sign of the presence of Klebsiella;
Gram-negative rods of microbes such as Escherichia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are small in size.

Seeding studies

To identify bacteria of various kinds helps their cultivation in certain areas. Almost all microorganisms "love" places where ideal conditions are created for their survival and reproduction. This information makes it possible to identify the causative agent of the disease.

In order to grow a colony, it is necessary to populate a smear in a certain nutrient medium and place it in a thermostat, where an environment favorable for reproduction is maintained. Do it only in a sterile box. The worker who performs the procedure must be dressed in overalls that will protect him from pathologically dangerous microorganisms.

There is such a relationship between the nutrient medium and bacteria:

saprophytes and pathogenic bacteria (pneumococcus, Staphylococcus aureus) live in blood agar;
almost all microbes reproduce in Saburo's environment, it is considered universal;
staphylococci are cultivated in yellow-salt agar;
in chocolate agar, pathogens of purulent meningitis, gonococci, hemophilic rods multiply rapidly;
in Endo's medium, enterobacteria can be differentiated and diagnosed.

To study the material, a Petri dish is used - this is a special vessel in the form of a cylinder with a tight-fitting lid. Mucus taken from the nose or pharynx is rubbed onto its inner surface, and then it is gently scattered. The sowing stays in the thermostat for a day, after which it becomes clear which bacteria and in what quantity are present in the material.

For a more detailed study of microorganisms, they are placed in nutrient media, where they grow. A pure culture is much easier to study under a microscope, because the relocation of individual colonies is carried out.

What the results will tell

After a detailed study of all the features of pathogenic or conditionally pathogenic microflora, experts make its description. Conducting tests allows you to identify the genus and type of microorganism that has become the causative agent of the disease. The extract received from the laboratory contains the following information:

species and genus of bacteria written in Latin;
designation of pathogenicity of microflora;
number of bacterial cells.

With a positive result, additional studies are also done, this is especially important when a staphylococcal pathogen is detected.

Bacterial cells are tested for resistance to certain types of drugs and bacteriophages. This is necessary to prescribe the correct treatment, since many strains of pathogenic microorganisms have developed resistance to a wide range of antibiotics.

Research issues

In case of suspicion of an acute infection provoked by staphylococcus aureus, it is necessary to take prompt measures to suppress it. If the patient does not start taking antibacterial drugs on time, then there is a risk of serious complications, such as:

Since it is impossible to donate material for the detection of staphylococci while taking medications, a kind of vicious circle is formed: the doctor, not wanting to risk the patient's health, prescribes antibiotic therapy without conducting research, and the patient takes drugs that may not affect the pathogen at all. In order to avoid such a situation, you need to be very careful about your health and, if you find the slightest violations, go for an examination.

In conclusion

It is necessary to conduct research on mucus taken from the nose and throat to identify staphylococcus and other pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms. A laboratory study will help to find out what exactly provoked the deterioration in the patient's health, and it is also necessary to select the most effective therapy. Take care of your health and get tested on time.

Staphylococcus aureus is a gram-positive bacterium that belongs to the spherical type of microorganisms. Some types of staphylococcus enter the natural human microflora, and some are involved in the development of the inflammatory response. A swab from the nose and throat is prescribed for the reproduction of Staphylococcus aureus and saprophyte, which causes a certain clinical picture.

Why do I need a smear from the throat and nose for staphylococcus aureus?

The main purpose of taking a swab from the nose for the presence is to determine the etiological factor in the development of a particular disease.

Left swab from the nose. On the right, a swab from the throat for staphylococcus aureus

The reasons for the procedure are:

with serous or purulent discharge;
angina;
inflammatory processes on the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, accompanied by pain, swelling, fever and redness;

In addition, a smear and further bacteriological culture allows you to study in detail the microflora of the organ and determine the sensitivity of the pathogenic microorganism to antibacterial drugs.

A smear for staphylococcus is usually taken from three areas to choose from:

from the pharynx;
nasal mucosa;
tonsils.

In these areas, the composition of the microflora is almost the same.

To determine the presence of the pathogen, the procedure is carried out once. The second is already carried out with the prescribed treatment to evaluate the effectiveness of therapy in seven to ten days.

If it is necessary to extend therapy or poor results of the second analysis, it is possible to take a smear from the nose and pharynx for the third time.

We bring to your attention to read about modern methods of treatment of staphylococcus aureus.

Biomaterial sampling method

Like any other diagnostic method, a swab from the nose and throat also requires special preparation. Before analysis, a number of rules must be observed:

three days before the day of delivery, it is necessary to abandon the use of sprays and mouth rinses;
five days before the procedure, stop using systemic and local antibacterial drugs, as they can reduce the actual bacterial contamination;
it is impossible to wash the nasal cavity and throat with solutions and water on the eve of the diagnosis;
it is forbidden to brush your teeth twelve hours before the start of the study;
It is recommended that the test be taken on an empty stomach, as there may be food residue on the mucous membrane.

The last two points are not required when taking a smear for staphylococcus exclusively from the nose.

What not to do before a smear for staphylococcus from the pharynx and nose

Step by step collection process

Before starting the manipulation, the patient should sit on a chair and tilt his head back. A health worker (doctor or nurse) takes a cotton swab and runs it along the inner or outer wall of the nasal cavity. The procedure does not bring any discomfort or pain, unlike taking a smear for staphylococcus aureus from the pharynx and tonsils. In this case, a gag reflex and irritation of the mucous membrane is possible.

Nasal swab for staphylococcus aureus

Throat swab for staphylococcus aureus

The result is usually ready in five to seven days.

Very rarely, a smear for staphylococcus aureus is taken during a rhinoscopy or e-nose by an otorhinolaryngologist.

A swab from the nose for staphylococcus aureus - decoding the analysis

In order to decipher the result of diagnosing a smear from the throat and nose for staphylococcus aureus, it is necessary to understand the meaning of the main indicators on the form.

On a leaflet in the first column, the type of microorganism is usually indicated. In this case, bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Staphylococcus saprophyticus . The second column indicates the result of the study.

The amount of infection is indicated in special units of measurement - CFU / ml, where CFU is a colony-forming unit, and milliliters indicate the amount of nutrient medium.

That is, the analysis is carried out based on the prevalence of the species on a specialized jelly-like substance. The third column indicates the proper number of microorganisms.

Photo gallery of results:

The norm for an adult is the number of microorganisms up to 10 3 cfu/ml. This number indicates the carriage or presence of staphylococcus, as a representative of the natural microflora of the nasal cavity. For children up to a year, the concentration of bacteria up to 10 4 CFU / ml is considered the norm. A concentration above the proposed values indicates the main role of infection in the formation of an inflammatory response.

In some modern clinics, the forms also take into account the sensitivity of the strain to a particular antibiotic.

Typically, the pathogen is tested for sensitivity to:

penicillins;
tetracyclines;
erythromycin;
macrolides;
cephalosporins.

Such a study does not take long, but provides a lot of information necessary for the selection of effective medicines.

In the presence of an active inflammatory process and meager indicators of the analysis of a swab from the throat and nose for staphylococcus aureus, the patient is sent for re-diagnosis to refute or confirm the data obtained.

Where can I take a swab from the nose for staphylococcus aureus?

An analysis of the pharynx and nose for staphylococcus aureus can be taken either in a private paid clinic or in a budgetary state medical institution. The result usually does not depend on the place of the study. A referral for research can be given by a therapist, ENT doctor, infectious disease specialist and any other narrow specialist, depending on the situation.

The price in private clinics usually varies depending on the laboratory and its location. The table shows examples of cities and cost ranges for the procedure.

Taking a smear in the Invitro laboratory

The cost of a nasal swab for staphylococcus aureus in such a popular clinic as Invitro is one of the highest.

Depending on the region and city, the analysis costs between 500-1500 rubles.

But, despite the high cost of the procedure, patients prefer it, as the laboratory has established itself as one of the best diagnostic clinics in Russia.

People with occupational hazards and reduced immunity are advised to take a swab from the nose and throat at least once a year as a preventive measure for pathologies.

The main purpose of taking a swab from the nose for the presence of staphylococcus is to determine the etiological factor in the development of a particular disease.

Left swab from the nose. On the right, a swab from the throat for staphylococcus aureus

The reasons for the procedure are:

chronic rhinitis with serous or purulent discharge;
angina;
inflammatory processes on the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, accompanied by pain, swelling, fever and redness;

A smear for staphylococcus is usually taken from three areas to choose from:

from the pharynx;
nasal mucosa;
tonsils.

In these areas, the composition of the microflora is almost the same.

If it is necessary to extend therapy or poor results of the second analysis, it is possible to take a smear from the nose and pharynx for the third time.

We bring to your attention to read about modern methods of treating staphylococcus aureus with ointments and drops.

Biomaterial sampling method

Like any other diagnostic method, a swab from the nose and throat also requires special preparation. Before analysis, a number of rules must be observed:

three days before the day of delivery, it is necessary to abandon the use of sprays and mouth rinses;
five days before the procedure, stop using systemic and local antibacterial drugs, as they can reduce the actual bacterial contamination;
it is impossible to wash the nasal cavity and throat with solutions and water on the eve of the diagnosis;
it is forbidden to brush your teeth twelve hours before the start of the study;
It is recommended that the test be taken on an empty stomach, as there may be food residue on the mucous membrane.

The last two points are not required when taking a smear for staphylococcus exclusively from the nose.

What not to do before a smear for staphylococcus from the pharynx and nose

Step by step collection process

Nasal swab for staphylococcus aureus
Throat swab for staphylococcus aureus
The doctor puts the wand in the vial

The result is usually ready in five to seven days.

Very rarely, a smear for staphylococcus aureus is taken during a rhinoscopy or endoscopic examination of the nose by an otorhinolaryngologist.

A swab from the nose for staphylococcus aureus - analysis transcript

In order to decipher the result of diagnosing a smear from the throat and nose for staphylococcus aureus, it is necessary to understand the meaning of the main indicators on the form.

On a leaflet in the first column, the type of microorganism is usually indicated. In this case, bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Staphylococcus saprophyticus. The second column indicates the result of the study.

The amount of infection is indicated in special units of measurement - CFU / ml, where CFU is a colony-forming unit, and milliliters indicate the amount of nutrient medium.

That is, the analysis is carried out based on the prevalence of the species on a specialized jelly-like substance. The third column indicates the proper number of microorganisms.

Photo gallery of results:

The norm for an adult is the number of microorganisms up to 103 cfu/ml. This number indicates the carriage or presence of staphylococcus, as a representative of the natural microflora of the nasal cavity. For children up to a year, the concentration of bacteria up to 104 CFU / ml is considered the norm. A concentration above the proposed values indicates the main role of infection in the formation of an inflammatory response.

In some modern clinics, the forms also take into account the sensitivity of the strain to a particular antibiotic.

Typically, the pathogen is tested for sensitivity to:

penicillins;
tetracyclines;
erythromycin;
macrolides;
cephalosporins.

Such a study does not take long, but provides a lot of information necessary for the selection of effective medicines.

Where can I take a swab from the nose for staphylococcus aureus?

The price in private clinics usually varies depending on the laboratory and its location. The table shows examples of cities and cost ranges for the procedure.

Ways of penetration of cocci

Getting into the female body from the outside, the coccal infection replenishes the existing one and, with a decrease in immunity, passes into the pathogenic stage. Medicine recorded the following "routes" of infection:

fecal-oral;
air-dust;
contact household;
airborne.

The fecal-oral (alimentary) method of infection is when staphylococcus enters the body through the oral cavity if personal hygiene is not observed, dirty food is eaten or hands are not washed, with the development of an infectious disease (hepatitis, botulism). Air-dust - in case of swallowing street dust by mouth, inhalation of plant pollen or animal hair particles, when the vagina is infected with viruses, fungi, bacteria.

By contact-household, you can become infected with staphylococcus aureus if you do not follow the rules of personal hygiene, do not change bed linen, wear uncomfortable synthetic thongs, panties, which increase the risk of injury to the skin near the vagina.

It is easier to get infected by airborne droplets during an influenza or SARS epidemic, when the risk of infection with infectious (in particular, staphylococcal) diseases increases several times.

It is possible to transmit staphylococcus aureus when using non-sterile instruments by a gynecologist at the time of examination. Infection with staphylococcus can occur at the time of unprotected intercourse, if the rules of intimate hygiene are not followed, when staphylococcus penetrates the vaginal mucosa, multiplies and leads to various diseases.

In addition, the reasons for the detection of staphylococcus in a smear may be due to:

Many girls and even women incorrectly wash (from the anus to the front) or do not do it at all, which can also serve as an impetus for active reproduction and seeding of the vaginal cavity with staphylococcus aureus.

Who writes out the direction for analysis

Now you know why they do an analysis for pathogenic staphylococcus aureus. How to take biomaterial for research, we also told. Now I want to tell you about who can prescribe such an analysis.

Staphylococcus aureus is called a conditionally pathogenic bacterium, which manifests itself with a weakened immune system or a disturbed composition of the microflora. In the absence of proper treatment, it quickly leads to infectious and inflammatory lesions of a local and systemic nature.

We found out how they take tests for staphylococcus aureus (enterococcus, streptococcus). But who sends patients to such a study? It depends on what damage they have.

The most common injuries are:

Skin (impetigo, carbuncles, folliculitis). In this case, the dermatologist sends for analysis.
Mammary glands (mastitis) - mammologist.
ENT organs (tonsillitis, otitis, sinusitis, laryngotracheitis, pharyngitis, pneumonia) - otolaryngologist.
Urinary tract (urethritis, pyelonephritis, cystitis) - urologist.
Digestive system (enterocolitis, peritonitis, appendicitis, cholecystitis, paraproctitis) - gastroenterologist.
Osteo-articular system (arthritis, osteomyelitis) – surgeon, orthopedist.

Symptoms of staphylococcus in a smear in women

Clinical manifestations of staphylococcus can be quite diverse. They depend on the type of bacteria, the affected system, the age of the person, the state of immunity.

In the latent phase, signs of infectious processes in the reproductive system are practically invisible. Women can only tell when interviewed that they have discomfort during intercourse.

In some cases of infection of the genitourinary system, severe clinical symptoms may not be. For this reason, regular preventive examinations are necessary to detect lurking bacteria, including staphylococci.

Among the etiology of various gynecological diseases, bacterial infections play a significant role. Staphylococcus in the vagina causes the development of the inflammatory process. It is important to treat this disease in time, preventing its chronicity and complications.

Methods of infection

This infection in gynecology is found quite often. Most women are carriers of staphylococcus aureus, but with good local immunity, inflammation does not develop.

There are a number of factors contributing to inflammation:

decrease in general and local immunity;
hormonal imbalance;
violation of vaginal acidity;
improper treatment of infections;
dysbacteriosis;
gynecological diseases.

In the case of a decrease in the body's defenses, a pathological process develops, which is facilitated by trauma to the mucous membranes and a change in the pH of the vagina towards alkaline. Violation of the acid-base balance causes the death of lactic acid bacteria and the reproduction of opportunistic microflora.

The failure of the hormonal background is displayed on the condition of the mucous membranes of the vagina, because of which their protective function suffers, they become the entrance gate for infection.

Staphylococcus enters the vagina from the skin of the carrier. This bacterium often lives on the mucous membrane of the throat and causes the development of a sore throat.

Infection occurs from another person through the sharing of hygiene items. As with other sexually transmitted infections, infection can occur during sexual intercourse.

If staphylococcus lives on the membranes of the throat, then one of the ways of infection is oral sex. You can become infected during hygiene procedures and medical procedures.

How is Staphylococcus aureus tested?

How is a biomaterial taken to determine staphylococcus aureus? In the case of the pharynx and nose, an instrument resembling a long cotton swab is used. It is gently carried out over the mucous membranes, and then placed in a sterile and tightly closed jar.

To determine the harmful bacteria in the laboratory, the biomaterial is sown. Do it on nutrient media. After about 20-24 hours, specialists observe a noticeable growth of colonies. This is precisely the confirming fact that the bacterium is present in the obtained material.

In addition to the fact that the analysis of staphylococcus aureus helps to determine its presence in the human body, such a study makes it possible to identify its sensitivity to certain antibiotics.

Treatment

Despite the allocation of several clinical forms, the principles of therapy for nonspecific vaginitis are the same. Their obligatory element is the complex nature of the application of therapeutic factors:

At the first stage, the use of antibacterial agents is always carried out, which makes it possible to destroy the main population of microbes and eliminate the manifestations of the disease. Moreover, to increase the effectiveness of therapy, it is practiced to prescribe funds in local (douching with antiseptics, vaginal suppositories and tablets) and systemic form. Preference is given to drugs with combined properties that effectively affect both staphylococci and other microorganisms.
At the second stage, the search and correction of violations that contribute to the development of vaginal dysbacteriosis is carried out. These can be various chronic diseases, hormonal disorders, and even banal non-compliance with the principles of hygiene.
At the final stage, the normal microflora of the vagina, a natural protective factor, is restored. For this, preparations of lactobacilli (eubiotics) are used in local form.

In the treatment of saprophytic staphylococcus, measures are taken to activate the body's defenses and maintain immunity. For these purposes, the doctor prescribes herbal preparations and bacteriophages:

A: Human papillomavirus (HPV) diagnosis. Human papillomavirus in women

Antibiotics are prescribed only for severe staphylococcal lesions. Sometimes a four-day course of taking Ampicillin is enough, however, in case of a complicated course, other antibiotics (for example, Oxacillin and Vancomycin) will be prescribed, which must be taken for a week.

When Staphylococcus aureus is detected in a smear taken from the vagina, therapeutic measures are not always required. It all depends on the amount of the microorganism and on its percentage with other strains.

Also, the clinical picture of the pathology is of some importance, in the presence of which treatment is started regardless of the obtained indicators.

Treatment of Staphylococcus aureus in the vagina is a difficult task, as the microorganism successfully fights the harmful effects. Systemic treatment with antibacterial drugs is carried out.

First, broad-spectrum drugs are prescribed, and the patient's allergic history should be taken into account and tests must be carried out. For local treatment, vaginal suppositories from staphylococcus are used, which can be both containing antibiotics and probiotics to populate the vagina with beneficial microflora.

However, this microorganism has the ability to adapt to antibiotics, which is why the doctor may periodically need to change the treatment regimen.

If the attachment of another infection is noted, then therapy for its pathogen is additionally prescribed, for example, antifungal drugs for candidiasis.

Since the excessive development of staphylococcus is often associated with a decrease in the body's immune forces, it is possible to prescribe immunomodulators, but one should be very careful with their use.

Self-treatment of reduced resistance is unacceptable, since drugs can only be prescribed under the control of an immunogram.

What diseases are caused by staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcal infections are diverse. Excessive reproduction of this microorganism in the genital tract provokes the growth of many other opportunistic representatives of the flora, in particular, gardnerella, Candida fungi.

Gardnerellosis or dysbacteriosis

It leads to a non-specific inflammatory process that is difficult to treat. The bottom line is that lactobacilli and bifidobacteria constantly synthesize lactic acid in combination with hydrogen peroxide to form a protective barrier. When the disease is friendly, the flora is quickly absorbed by the pathogenic gardnerella and the acidity decreases.

The imbalance is often provoked by women themselves - excessive washing away neutralizes the acidic environment. The use of contraceptives (in particular, suppositories), the intrauterine device, suppress and wash out the beneficial flora, giving a chance for the development of pathogenic gardnerella.

Reproduction of staphylococcus can lead to inflammation of the uterine appendages, and in pregnant women - to miscarriage, premature birth, infection of the fetus at the time of passage through the birth canal.

Bacterial vaginosis

Often detected in older women due to the extinction of ovarian function, thinning of the vaginal mucosa. These processes open the way for conditionally pathogenic flora. There is inflammation with the phenomenon of pus in blood impurities during scanty menstruation during menopause.

Women suffer from itching, burning in the vagina, a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen. The intensity of the course of unpleasant symptoms directly depends on the state of the immune system and age.

Colpitis

This is an inflammatory process in the mucous membrane caused by direct exposure to Staphylococcus aureus. It leads to swelling, vaginal hyperemia, serous discharge with a fetid odor from the genital tract.

Only timely bacterioscopy, microbiological seeding, PCR (polymerase chain reaction) will reveal colpitis. The course of treatment in order to restore beneficial microflora includes douching and the introduction of suppositories.

Vulvovaginitis

It leads to damage to the mucous membrane of the vagina and external labia. It is caused by various microflora, but more often by a yeast fungus Candida against the background of an increase in the concentration of Staphylococcus aureus. The disease often manifests itself in girls under 10 years of age or women in the postmenopausal period.

Vulvovaginitis is not prone to relapse and dissemination (spread), but inflammation must be treated, otherwise the condition of the urinary tract will worsen. Pathology entails serious consequences for the reproductive system, can lead to ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, tubal infertility.

Which bacterium can cause harm

Why are some patients prescribed an analysis for staphylococcus aureus (we will describe how the biomaterial is taken later)? The fact is that along with harmless, there are dangerous types of this bacterium. These include epidermal, saprophytic and Staphylococcus aureus.

According to experts, such microorganisms are ways not only to block the protective functions of the body, but also to release the strongest toxins.

To identify dangerous species of this bacterium, they are tested for staphylococcus aureus. Few know how they take it. Therefore, we decided to cover this topic in the presented article.

Such material analysis is microbiological. During laboratory tests, the type of dangerous bacterium is revealed, and its sensitivity to various antibiotics is also determined.

Preparation for the collection of material

How to prepare for such a study as an analysis of staphylococcus aureus? How to take it correctly so that the results are not false? It depends on what biomaterial is used for this. However, in any case, it is strictly forbidden to take antibacterial drugs before taking it, as this can directly affect the results of the study.

A blood test for staphylococcus should be carried out only on an empty stomach, in the morning. At the same time, a few days before the sampling of the material, in no case should you drink antiviral agents and use antibiotics (even local effects).

Before passing sputum, the patient should drink a large amount of liquid (8-12 hours before visiting the clinic).

Diuretics should be avoided 2 days before urine collection. And 3 days before collecting feces, laxatives and herbs should be abandoned, as well as tablets that directly affect its color and intestinal motility. In addition, it is strictly forbidden to enter any rectal suppositories and ointments.

Before taking a urogenital smear, the representatives of the stronger sex should not urinate for three hours. As for women, the sampling of the same biomaterial should be carried out a few days before menstruation or 2 days after it ends.

Staphylococcus aureus in men

A dangerous infection can rapidly produce in the male body, but there are much fewer such cases in extensive medical practice. Staphylococcus in adult men is manifested by progressive urethritis, prostatitis, prostate adenoma, pneumonia and bronchitis.

The course of the pathological process can begin with a barely noticeable sore throat, and end with an acute attack with the need for further hospitalization.

In most cases, it is not necessary to eliminate the bacterium, since in minimal quantities it is not able to cause an infectious process. However, if its indicators exceed the norm, it is necessary to undergo a therapeutic course, which should first of all be aimed at eliminating the factor that led to the shift in the vaginal flora.

It should be understood that the analysis of a smear for flora and the detection of an excess of staphylococcal infection in it is only the initial stage in the diagnosis of the disease. To clarify the diagnosis, additional studies will be required, for example, diagnostics by PCR, which makes it possible to detect even latent infections of the genital tract.

The treatment regimen is selected individually and depends on the nature of the disease. Most often, a woman is prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs and local treatment. It comes down to regular sanitation of the vagina using antiseptic solutions. For this, miramistin, chlorphyllipt, streptomycin are used.

The choice of vaginal suppositories is carried out by a doctor. It depends on the nature of the disease. Often prescribed are candles such as Terzhinan, Pimafucin, Genferon or Vokadin. They have a wide spectrum of action, are able to suppress both microbial and fungal flora.

A: Bitterness in the mouth after antibiotics

Ways of infection

The main route of spread of Staphylococcus aureus is airborne. Bacteria are constantly present in the nasopharynx of a huge number of people, and when communicating with an infected person, part of the bacteria is necessarily transmitted to his interlocutor.

Also, the bacterium is present in huge quantities on all surfaces in public places. One has only to touch them, and the microbe passes to the skin of the hands. Further, if a person follows hygiene, then when washing his hands, he will get rid of the main number of uninvited guests, and the rest will be finished off by the immune system.

If the hands are not clean enough, and the woman performs hygiene procedures, then staphylococcus can move from the skin of the hands to the mucous membranes of the genital organs and gain a foothold on them if the immune system is not strong enough.

Another common way of self-infection is as follows. A huge number of people have S. aureus in their intestines. If hygiene after the act of defecation is performed incorrectly or insufficiently carefully, then the bacterium can easily reach the genitals and colonize the vagina.

A huge problem for women is infection with S. aureus during medical procedures and even preventive medical examinations. If a gynecological examination was performed using a non-sterile instrument, then infection will occur. If a non-sterile urinary catheter was placed in the maternity hospital before or after childbirth, then infection is inevitable. In most cases, staphylococcus does not manifest itself in any way, but patiently waits for the immune system to weaken, and then it will not miss its chance for rapid reproduction.

The impetus for staphylococcal aggression can be:

hypothermia;
overwork;
chronic diseases;
long-term antibiotic treatment;
hormonal changes on the eve of menopause;
vaginal injury;
taking drugs that suppress immunity during organ transplantation;
the use of low-quality tampons, pads and other means of intimate feminine hygiene.

Causes of staphylococcus in a smear in women

Staphylococcus can enter the vagina in several ways, including:

Performing intimate hygiene. The bacterium normally exists on the skin of even an absolutely healthy person; when washing, it, together with water, is able to penetrate the mucous membranes of the vagina. In the presence of favorable conditions for it, the bacterium will begin to multiply. In addition, staphylococcus aureus can be introduced from the intestines as a result of improper washing or self-care after a bowel movement.

Entering the vagina due to unskilled actions of medical workers. As a result, for example, a gynecological examination using non-sterile instruments can lead to infection. Surgery is another way of infection with a bacterium. Although this route of infection is quite rare and amounts to no more than 1%.

Unprotected intercourse.

For a long time, staphylococcus can absolutely not show its presence. However, under the influence of a number of provoking factors, the bacterium begins to actively multiply.

The impetus for the development of the inflammatory process can be:

Diseases of the genital area;

Long-term drug therapy;

Relapses of chronic diseases;

Weakened immune defenses, HIV;

Injury to the mucous membrane of the vagina;

Disruptions in the hormonal system;

Dysbacteriosis of the vagina, etc.

A common cause of the appearance of staphylococcus aureus in a smear is the regular use of tampons. It is the synthetic materials from which these hygiene products are made that are a favorable place for the reproduction of bacteria. As a result, an increase in the number of staphylococci and their suppression of the beneficial microflora of the vagina.

What biomaterial is used

Now you know what the analysis for staphylococcus is prescribed for. How to donate biomaterial for its further research? Before answering this question, you should find out where it comes from.

Most often, a swab from the pharynx or nose is used for laboratory research. However, there are cases when, for analysis, it is necessary to take sputum, blood, breast milk, a smear from the conjunctiva, a single portion of urine, feces, a substance that is released from the ear or wound, rectal and urogenital smears (along with the secret of the prostate gland).

Which of the above materials to use, should be determined only by the attending physician.

When appointed

It is recommended to take a biomaterial for analysis for staphylococcus aureus if an infection is suspected, which can be caused by this microorganism. In addition, such a study is used in the diagnosis of nosocomial diseases.

If a person is not sick and has no complaints, then such an analysis can be prescribed during a regular and planned professional examination of medical personnel and catering workers, as well as in the presence of pregnancy.

Often such a study is carried out for the treatment of diseases that are caused by staphylococcus aureus. This method allows diagnosing the existing deviation and evaluating the effectiveness of antibacterial treatment. It is also used to detect bacteriocarrier and the correct selection of drugs.

Characteristics of diseases provoked by staphylococcus aureus

If Staphylococcus aureus is found in the vagina, one can confidently talk about the dysbacteriosis of this organ. However, vaginal dysbiosis does not always proceed in the same way and has several varieties.

Forms of vaginal dysbacteriosis associated with excessive development of staphylococcus aureus:

Gardnerellosis. Violation of the balance of beneficial and conditionally pathogenic bacteria leads to the fact that ideal conditions are created for the vital activity of gardnerella. This microorganism causes a non-specific inflammatory process in the female vagina, quickly absorbs all lacto and bifidumbacteria and is very difficult to remove when trying to treat.
Bacterial vaginosis. This violation of the vaginal microflora is characterized by a decrease in beneficial bacteria and the excessive development of all types of opportunistic flora, which leads to a nonspecific inflammatory process.
Colpitis. Inflammation of the mucous membranes of the vagina, caused by direct exposure to Staphylococcus aureus. Pathology is easily chronicled, which may make it difficult to treat.
Vulvovaginitis. This condition is characterized by damage not only to the vagina, but also to other external genital organs. Inflammation can be caused by different microflora, but is more often associated with excessive growth of Candida fungi against the background of an increase in the number of Staphylococcus aureus. In such cases, the pathology is called thrush.

Symptoms of vaginal staphylococcus, whatever form the lesion takes, are the same and include the following:

The presence of secretions of a different nature (depending on the predominant pathogen);
Itching and burning in the affected area;
Pain during urination and during sexual intercourse;
Pain in the lower abdomen.

Analysis results

Today there are no problems with where and how to get tested for staphylococcus aureus. Both employees of a regular hospital and specialists of private clinics can take material and conduct a laboratory study.

As a rule, the result of such an analysis is never in doubt. There can be only 2 options: the growth of bacteria and its absence.

A positive test result indicates the presence of an acute infection caused by staphylococcus aureus, as well as its asymptomatic carriage. As for the negative, it indicates the absence of bacteria in the body.

Carriage of staphylococcus, which does not cause any discomfort to the patient, is not subject to therapy.

Treatment of staphylococcus during pregnancy

It must be remembered that during pregnancy it is forbidden to take antibiotics. For this reason, it is much easier to treat the nose and throat than the urinary tract.

Taking antibacterial agents during pregnancy is acceptable only in rare cases when the benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus.

Mostly used drugs without side effects, which include a bacteriophage (a virus that destroys pathogenic bacteria). Studies have confirmed that staphylococcal bacteriophage is completely safe when used during pregnancy.

Staphylococci, which are non-motile gram-positive bacteria, enter the microflora of a perfectly healthy person. They are localized on the skin, in the nasal and oral cavity.

There are cases when staphylococcus enters the mucous membranes along with, which complicates the course of diseases and treatment.

The symptoms of children are slightly different from those of adults. Babies are prone to flatulence, abdominal pain, intestinal disorders. Often small patients are pressed by a dry cough, pain when swallowing food.

Body temperature rises to 40 degrees, which is very dangerous for all children's organs. The child becomes restless, naughty, refuses to eat, play, sleep peacefully.

The task of parents is to seek a consultation with a specialist in a timely manner and to properly treat their child, without bringing discomfort and stress to the small body.

Required tests

The bacterium manifests itself without specific symptoms, so it is almost impossible to detect it immediately visually. First, the treatment of angina begins with drugs that do not act on the removal of the microorganism.

Only after a competent diagnosis does the specialist make a conclusion and prescribe the necessary medications. A smear from the throat of staphylococcus aureus detects in the initial stage of the pathological process.

The attending pediatrician, family therapist or narrow specialist otolaryngologist directs for laboratory tests.

Important: if the disease often recurs, the patient needs to consult an infectious disease specialist and an immunologist.

In order for the result of the analysis to be reliable, before taking a smear, specialists conduct a conversation with the patient.

There are certain rules that should be followed when preparing the patient for the procedure.:

do not rinse your throat and mouth for several days before the procedure;
do not use a throat spray that contains antibacterial agents;
do not eat or drink liquid in the morning;
eat 8-9 hours before the test, no later.

It is advisable to talk less before the process, if it is possible not to communicate at all. By following the advice, the results are accurate, it is easier for the doctor to prescribe the right treatment, which will show an effective result in a short period of time.

Diagnose the presence of infection in several ways:

Staphylococcus aureus in the throat: the norm reaches 106 cfu / ml. If the indicators exceed the norm, immediate treatment prescribed by a specialist is required.

How to cure a disease

Staphylococcus aureus in the throat is treated only after a correct diagnosis. Be sure the doctor prescribes an antibiotic, without which the infection cannot be coped with.

You cannot decide on your own which antibacterial agent is better, because it is prescribed depending on the results of the study.

Pathogenic bacteria are resistant to many antibacterial drugs, harm the gastrointestinal tract, for this reason, only a specialist with experience in this area can correctly choose a remedy for effective treatment.

If antibiotic therapy is ineffective or impossible for certain reasons, patients are recommended a bacteriophage that acts as a virus of microorganisms. It is important to know that a bacteriophage effectively acts on a certain group of pathogenic bacteria.

In combination with drugs, experts recommend gargling with a decoction of chamomile or sage. Rinsing is allowed only at normal body temperature.

Always the treatment of the disease requires strengthening the immune system.

In order not to start the reproduction of bacteria, it is important to carry out diagnostics and laboratory tests on time. Be sure to take this moment into account when planning motherhood and in all trimesters of pregnancy.

In contact with

Today we have to find out how the analysis for staphylococcus is performed. How do they take it? What does that require? What should every patient know about proper preparation for the process? Only a correctly performed procedure for taking an analysis will give the most accurate result. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to numerous features. Let's figure out which ones.

Why carry out the procedure

To begin with, it is worth understanding why they take a smear for staphylococcus from citizens at all. After all, not every person is faced with this process. There are several reasons why an appropriate analysis may be performed.

To date, a smear for the presence of staphylococcus is taken:

If you suspect the presence of dangerous microorganisms in a patient, such as Staphylococcus aureus. He lives on the mucous membrane of the throat and nose, provokes inflammatory processes on the skin and mucous membranes.
If a person has a sore throat. In this case, a throat swab is taken to search for staphylococci or streptococci that can affect various body systems. So the cause of the appearance of angina is searched.

In fact, the preparation of the patient and the procedure for performing the procedure does not require much time and effort. But what is a staph smear anyway? What kind of analysis is this?

What is a staphylococcus test

If you suspect the presence of staphylococcus aureus or any diseases with similar symptoms, a special smear is taken. It helps the doctor determine which pathogenic microorganisms the patient has and what exactly caused this or that disease.

Most often, a smear from some organs is presented as an analysis for staphylococcus aureus. To be more precise, it takes:

from the pharynx (throat);
nose
tonsils.

The microflora of these areas is approximately the same. According to the results of the corresponding analysis, it will be possible to say exactly which microorganisms a person has.

What are the analyzes

But that is not all. In modern medicine, there is a huge variety of studies to test for certain diseases. Some patients are interested in what tests for staphylococcus exist in principle. There are several of them:

smear on microflora;
bacterial culture;
urine test;
blood test.

But most often in practice it is the smear that is used. It is very informative and allows you to quickly determine the presence of staphylococcus in the body. But not everyone is suitable for this scenario. Therefore, you can donate blood for staphylococcus aureus. This is the most gentle procedure that is suitable for both children and adults.

Body preparation

An analysis for staphylococcus aureus (smear) is performed according to a certain method. But first you need to properly prepare the patient for the described process.

Proper preparation of the pharynx, nose and tonsils is as follows:

Before the procedure, the patient will have to give up throat sprays and rinses, as well as nasal ointments with antibiotics and substances that have an antimicrobial effect. The use of these components is recommended to be canceled a few days before the analysis.
Before taking a smear, it is not recommended to brush your teeth, eat, or drink. This is mainly true for taking a swab from the throat or tonsils. It is not necessary to follow this advice when examining the microflora of the nose.

This is all every patient should know about how to prepare for a staph smear. If we are talking about donating blood, you just need to give up bad habits, allergens a few days before the procedure, and also come to the laboratory no earlier than 8 hours after eating. Blood tests are taken on an empty stomach, and that's all. Everyone should remember this.

Carrying out the procedure

How is the analysis for staphylococcus taken? It all depends on what kind of research we are talking about. It is the smear that attracts attention. Not everyone understands how this procedure is carried out, what to prepare for and what to expect.

To begin with, the patient should sit down, throw back his head and open his mouth wide. Next, the patient is pressed down with a tongue using a special device made of wood or metal.

Once this stage is completed, the doctor takes a cotton swab and runs it along the mucous membrane of the throat and tonsils. This is all. Next, the stick is placed in a special container, after which it is sent to the laboratory for further research.

Nothing difficult or special, but the procedure is not too pleasant. It does not bring any pain, but it can cause a gag reflex, so it is not recommended for people with hypersensitivity and a strong gag reflex.

When it comes to analysis, handed over from the nose, everything is much simpler. It is enough to ask the patient to tilt his head back, insert a cotton swab into the nose, then attach it to the nasal walls from the inside. A little unpleasant, but no gag reflex.

Blood test

But this is not the only analysis for staphylococcus aureus. How is blood taken to search for this bacterium in the body? Everything is extremely simple. But this procedure is not very suitable for children, especially small ones.

The fact is that blood is taken from a vein to search for staphylococcus aureus. But in young children, biomaterial is usually taken from a finger. In this case, it is advisable not to feed the child before the procedure.

The same goes for adults. As already mentioned, when donating blood from a vein, it is necessary to refrain from eating, since the most accurate result is possible only when the procedure is performed on an empty stomach.

The doctor is looking for a thick vein on the elbow. Then the patient's hand is placed on a special pad with the inside up. A special tourniquet is tightened on the forearm, after which the doctor asks to "work with his fist" or strain his arm. The desired vein from tension becomes clearly visible and easily palpable.

A special needle with a blood receiver is inserted into it. After the required amount of blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and a cotton pad is pressed to the injection site. Most often it is fixed with a bandage for reliability. This is how the analysis for staphylococcus is carried out.

Urine

Another rather informative technique is the delivery of urine to search for staphylococcus aureus in the body. Usually this study replaces a swab from the urethra. It is carried out without special manipulations, but with preliminary preparation.

To pass urine for analysis, you just need to endure an 8-hour hunger strike, as well as refrain from taking medication and refrain from smoking and alcohol. In a small sterile container, the patient collects the morning (first) urine, after which he takes it to the laboratory for further research.

It is worth paying attention to the fact that the collected biological material is valid only for 2 hours. Therefore, it is necessary to deliver him to a medical facility as soon as possible.

Where to go

Where can I get tested for staphylococcus aureus? Today, each patient himself has the right to choose the place of seeking appropriate assistance. For example, you can go:

To a government clinic/hospital. An analysis for staphylococcus aureus is usually performed after being referred by a physician. Free, but long.
In a private medical institution (clinic, laboratory). The collection of blood, urine or the implementation of a smear is performed at the personal request of the patient. You will have to pay, but the result will be known as soon as possible.
To the maternity hospital. In maternity hospitals, quite often all women and newborn children have to donate blood for various tests. Sometimes those present are tested for staphylococcus aureus.

Most often, the choice is between a public clinic and a private center. In the second case, the list of tests for testing for staphylococcus may be more diverse than in the first. Everyone chooses for himself what kind of help and where to turn to.

How much is done

How much is the analysis for staphylococcus? This question is also of interest to many. After all, the sooner the results of the studies are ready, the sooner treatment can begin.

As a rule, a smear / culture will be ready within 5 days from the date of delivery of the corresponding biomaterial. And blood / urine allows you to find out about the presence of staphylococcus after 2-3 days. In private clinics, in some cases, you can see the results the very next day.

Results

Now it’s clear what an analysis for staphylococcus can be. How they take it is also no longer a mystery. There is nothing difficult or special about the procedure. As already mentioned, not everyone can take a swab from the pharynx or tonsils due to a strong gag reflex.

Fortunately, in modern medicine, alternative methods of action can always be found. For example, donate blood or urine for further research. Such a diagnosis is not the most accurate, but it does not cause discomfort.