Fig. 8. Schematic diagram of proposed new function of S. aureus lipoproteins in skin infection.

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) lipoproteins stimulate the release of chemokines and cytokines from macrophages, consequently leading to substantial influx of monocytes and neutrophils to the site of infection. In turn, this enhances the levels of tissue factor (TF) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), initiating the activation of the coagulation and inhibition of fibrinolysis, which results in deposition of fibrin and increased skin abscess formation with improved bacterial survival. In addition, neutrophils play a crucial role in directly inducing abscess formation.