Vulva lesions from staph infections

Most women experience minor vaginal problems from time to time. These problems can be related to menstrual cycles, sex, infection, birth control methods, aging, medicines, or changes after pregnancy. A change in your normal vaginal discharge may be the first sign of a vaginal problem. Changes in urination, such as having to urinate more frequently or having a burning feeling when you urinate, also may be a symptom of a vaginal problem.

Staphylococcus aureus is the most dangerous of all of the many common staphylococcal bacteria. These gram-positive , sphere-shaped coccal bacteria see figure How Bacteria Shape Up often cause skin infections but can cause pneumonia, heart valve infections, and bone infections. These bacteria are spread by having direct contact with an infected person, by using a contaminated object, or by inhaling infected droplets dispersed by sneezing or coughing. Skin infections are common, but the bacteria can spread through the bloodstream and infect distant organs. The diagnosis is based on the appearance of the skin or identification of the bacteria in a sample of the infected material. Antibiotics are chosen based on whether they are likely to be effective against the strain causing the infection.

Although several modes of transmission of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection have been reported, heterosexual activity has not previously been identified as a means of transmission. Recently, however, in northern Manhattan, three cases of heterosexual transmission of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus have been identified. Cook and her colleagues of the Columbia University Medical Center conducted a prospective, community-based study that included patients with positive cultures for MRSA.

A rash in your vaginal area vulva may be caused by irritation of the skin from many sources, such as clothes rubbing against the skin. Rashes that occur without other symptoms are usually minor and often go away with home treatment. A common cause of a rash is contact with a substance that causes irritation or an allergic reaction contact dermatitis. Soaps, detergents, shampoos, perfumes, or lotions can cause contact dermatitis.