Question 1

I'm trying to understand a test result for salmonella typhio. It shows 140, but everything else is at 120. What does this mean? Can you explain it to me?

Accepted Answer

. Typhi 1:240 suggests that you are suffering from typhoid. You need to consult your doctor immediately and start with the treatment for same.

Question 2

I'm dealing with this recurring infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, and it keeps showing up every couple of months since it first appeared in January 2019. I've had it in various placeslike my knee, finger, chin, nose, and scrotum. Even after seeing multiple doctors and taking antibiotics like Linezolid and Clarithromycin, the infection just popped up again on my right scrotum, and every time it brings on a fever. I've even had surgery for a carbuncle on my knee under anesthesia. The pus and blood cultures both came back positive for Staph A, but my nasal swab results were negative both times, and blood cultures were too. I'm really struggling to figure out why this keeps happening and would appreciate any guidance on how to stop these infections from coming back. What could be causing this, and is there anything specific I should be doing to prevent it?

Accepted Answer

Recurring Staphylococcus aureus infections indicate a persistent underlying issue. To address this, consider:

Medical Evaluation

1. Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) to rule out diabetes, kidney issues, or electrolyte imbalances.
2. Complete blood count (CBC) to assess immune function.
3. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) to monitor inflammation.
4. Staphylococcus aureus susceptibility testing to determine antibiotic resistance patterns.
5. Nasal swab and skin cultures to identify potential carriers.

Infection Prevention Strategies

1. Personal Hygiene: Frequent handwashing, showering, and cleaning.
2. Skin Care: Moisturize, avoid irritants, and use antibacterial soap.
3. Antibiotic Stewardship: Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use.
4. Immunizations: Ensure up-to-date on influenza, pneumococcal, and tetanus vaccines.
5. Stress Management: Yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Root Cause Investigation

1. Carrier State: Nasal or skin colonization.
2. Underlying Conditions: Diabetes, eczema, or other skin conditions.
3. Environmental Factors: Contaminated surfaces or water.
4. Genetic Predisposition: Family history of Staph infections.

Treatment Considerations

1. Long-term Antibiotics: Consider oral antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline or minocycline) for 6-12 months.
2. Topical Treatments: Antibiotic ointments or creams.
3. Surgical Intervention: Drainage or debridement for severe infections.

Recommended Specialists

1. Infectious Disease Specialist
2. Dermatologist
3. Orthopedic Surgeon (for skin and soft tissue infections)

Question 3

I'm kind of worried and need some guidance. Its been 53 days since I might have been exposed to HIV. I used an automated Western blot system for testing and the result came back negative. Does this mean I'm definitely in the clear, or should I be concerned? What does "negative conclusion" mean in this context? I really need to understand what my next steps should be.

Accepted Answer

Yes you are negative for HIV if you are concerned get your self after 6 months if that turns out to be negative you are free from the disease

How soon after a covid infection do black fungus symptoms usually appear? Can early detection of black fungus be treated without needing surgery?

More Infectious Disease Health Queries

I'm trying to understand a test result for salmonella typhio. It shows 140, but everything else is at 120. What does this mean? Can you explain it to me?

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