Pediatr. praxi. 2025;26(3):166-170 | DOI: 10.36290/ped.2025.032

Staphylococcus aureus as a pathogen in neonatal infections

MUDr. Veronika Pokorná^{1, 2}, MUDr. Lenka Ryšková, Ph.D.^{2, 3}, MUDr. Tomáš Matějek, Ph.D.^{1, 2}

¹ Dětská klinika, Fakultní nemocnice Hradec Králové

² Lékařská fakulta Univerzity Karlovy v Hradci Králové

³ Ústav klinické mikrobiologie, Fakultní nemocnice Hradec Králové

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a significant pathogen responsible for both community-acquired and nosocomial infections in neonates. It contributes to a high incidence of invasive infections, especially in intensive care units. Colonization of the skin and mucous membranes by this agent is a major risk factor, increasing the likelihood of developing an infection up to sixfold. The pathogen causes a wide range of diseases, from localized skin infections to severe systemic conditions (e.g., sepsis, osteomyelitis, meningitis). The clinical presentation depends on the specific type of infection, and in systemic cases, it may initially be nonspecific with rapid progression to a life-threatening state. Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical symptoms and complementary examinations. The etiological agent is identified through microbiological testing, where blood culture collection usually plays a key role. Treatment is complex and includes causal antimicrobial therapy, supportive care, and targeted management of potential complications. Despite advances in care, S. aureus remains a common nosocomial agent with the potential to cause serious consequences. The prognosis is mainly influenced by the severity of the infection and the presence of complications. A key preventive strategy is minimizing invasive procedures and promptly removing foreign materials.

Keywords: Staphylococcus aureus, neonatal infection, nosocomial infection, multifocal osteomyelitis, fosfomycin.

Accepted: June 16, 2025; Published: July 4, 2025  Show citation