Which bacterial infection can become systemic and result in death without proper treatment?

The bacterial infection that can become systemic and pose a significant risk of death without proper treatment is MRSA, or Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus. MRSA is a type of staph bacteria that has developed resistance to many antibiotics, which makes infections difficult to treat. If left untreated, MRSA can enter the bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body, leading to severe complications such as sepsis, organ failure, and ultimately, death.

This systemic nature of MRSA is particularly concerning because it can manifest in various forms, ranging from skin infections to more serious illnesses affecting the respiratory system, bloodstream, and other vital organs. Quick recognition and appropriate antibiotic therapy are essential to manage MRSA infections effectively and prevent their progression to life-threatening conditions.

Other infections mentioned, while serious, typically do not carry the same immediate risk of becoming systemic without treatment. Lyme disease, pneumonia, and strep throat can lead to serious complications, but MRSA's antibiotic resistance amplifies the risk of severe systemic infection and the associated outcomes.