In this review, we discuss Staphylococcus aureus bac-teraemia (SAB), which is a frequent and severe condition associated with high morbidity and mortality. Despite these facts, high-quality data on diagnostic approach, treatment and management of SAB remain scarce. Consequently, evidence-based guidelines concerning antibiotic therapy including the optimal choice of antibiotic drug, route of administration and treatment duration are not available. Thus, controlled clinical trials are urgently needed to increase evidence and to potentially improve the outcome for patients with SAB.