Stafyllokokka

Stafyllokokka is a genus of Gram-positive, spherical bacteria that are part of the family Staphylococcaceae. The name "staphylococci" is derived from the Greek words "staphyle" meaning a bunch of grapes and "kokkos" meaning berry, referring to their characteristic grape-like clusters under a microscope. These bacteria are commonly found on the skin and mucous membranes of humans and animals.

Several species within the Staphylococcus genus are known to cause disease in humans. The most medically significant is Staphylococcus aureus, which can lead to a wide range of infections, from minor skin conditions like boils and impetigo to more serious invasive infections such as pneumonia, endocarditis, and sepsis. Other species, like Staphylococcus epidermidis, are often commensal organisms but can cause opportunistic infections, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems or medical devices.

Staphylococci are facultative anaerobes, meaning they can grow with or without oxygen. They are typically non-motile and catalase-positive, a biochemical test used for their identification. Many strains produce various toxins and enzymes that contribute to their pathogenicity. Antibiotic resistance is a significant concern with staphylococcal infections, with strains like Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) posing a global health challenge. Diagnosis often involves laboratory culture and identification of the bacteria from clinical specimens, followed by antibiotic susceptibility testing.