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Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Male -- Penis/testicles/scrotom > Staphylococcus aureus
Posted on: 11/01/2007
Question
the swab on my penis showed staphylococcus aureus infection. my symptoms were dry scaly and peeling on the head of my penis. it started from one side and it's spreading all around.
twice the doctor proscribed me two sets of oral and topical antibiotics, but both times the problem came back without the possibility of re-infection. it clears when i'm on medication and it starts again as soon as i finish the medication...not sexually active now...i'm confused, pls help.
Answer
The Staph infection you have is not considered a "sexually-transmitted" infection, even though it can be spread from person to person by skin contact. The bacterium does live on your skin even after you take antibiotics, though. Sometimes it's possible to get rid of it for a while by using certain antibacterial soaps, or by using certain topical (applied to the skin) prescription antibiotics. I suggest you discuss this approach to "decolonization," as we call it, with your doctor, or, if needed, with an infectious disease specialist.