The skin lesions of atopic dermatitis may become colonized by Staphylococcus aureus.
The diagnosis is made by having persistently positive cultures for Staphylococcus aureus from these lesions.
Significance:
(1) The patient serves as a carrier for Staphylococcus aureus.
(2) Staphylococcus aureus carriage can be the source of infection, including surgical site infection.
(3) The severity of atopic dermatitis may be reduced by eliminating the Staphylococcus aureus.
A variety of interventions can be used to reduce or eliminate the Staphylococcus aureus, but recolonization is likely unless great care is taken.
The carriage of Staphylococcus aureus can be significant in some occupations, such as in healthcare.
