Which bacteria are the most common cause of skin infections?

Staphylococcus aureus is regarded as the most common cause of skin infections due to its prevalence and virulence in affecting human skin. This bacterium is capable of causing a variety of skin infections, including boils, abscesses, cellulitis, and impetigo. It has several features that contribute to its ability to infect skin, such as the production of enzymes and toxins that aid in tissue invasion and damage.

Additionally, Staphylococcus aureus can exist on the skin and nasal mucosa without causing harm, allowing it to easily enter through cuts or abrasions and cause infections. Its adaptability and virulence factors make it a leading pathogen in community-acquired skin infections. In contrast, while other bacteria listed can also cause infections, they are not as commonly associated with skin conditions. For example, Escherichia coli is primarily known for gastrointestinal infections, Streptococcus pneumoniae is more associated with respiratory tract infections, and Clostridium perfringens is related to gas gangrene and wound infections under specific anaerobic conditions. This specificity of Staphylococcus aureus to skin infections is what sets it apart as the primary causative agent.