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Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
12:18

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

Published on: February 9, 2011

Geographic information system localization of community-acquired MRSA soft tissue abscesses

Michael V Tirabassi1, George Wadie, Kevin P Moriarty

  • 1Division of Pediatric Surgery, Baystate Medical Center Children's Hospital, Tufts University School of Medicine, Springfield, MA 01103, USA.

Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|July 2, 2005
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) soft tissue infections are increasing in children. Geographic mapping revealed a significant MRSA cluster in Springfield, identifying location as a key risk factor.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Medical microbiology
  • Public health epidemiology

Background:

  • Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) soft tissue infections present a growing health risk for children.
  • An increase in MRSA infections among children without prior risk factors has been observed.
  • This study aimed to determine the incidence and geographic distribution of community-acquired MRSA soft tissue infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To ascertain the incidence of community-acquired MRSA soft tissue infections.
  • To geographically map areas with a higher risk of MRSA infections.
  • To identify geographic risk factors for MRSA infections in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective chart review of 195 patients who underwent incision and drainage for soft tissue infections between January 2000 and December 2003.
  • Exclusion of 13 patients due to lack of cultures taken during the procedure.
  • Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis to map infection clusters.

Main Results:

  • Staphylococcus aureus was the most common organism isolated (40%), with 45% of these being MRSA.
  • The majority of MRSA infections (81%) were concentrated in Springfield, out of 18 represented towns.
  • GIS analysis identified a significant MRSA cluster, 1.96 km in diameter, within Springfield.

Conclusions:

  • Geographic location was identified as a significant risk factor for MRSA infection.
  • Geographic maps of antibiotic resistance can aid physicians in early antibiotic selection.
  • This data has critical implications for healthcare providers in community-based antibiotic prescribing practices.

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