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A Mouse Model to Assess Innate Immune Response to Staphylococcus aureus Infection
Published on: February 28, 2019
[Staphylococcus aureus infections: new challenges from an old pathogen]
Zeina A Kanafani1, Vance G Fowler
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
Abstract:
Staphylococcus aureus is a versatile organism with several virulent characteristics and resistance mechanisms at its disposal. It is also a significant cause of a wide range of infectious diseases in humans. S. aureus often causes life-threatening deep seated infections like bacteremia, endocarditis and pneumonia. While traditionally confined mostly to the hospital setting, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) is now rapidly becoming rampant in the community. Community-acquired MRSA is particularly significant because of its potential for unchecked spread within households and its propensity for causing serious skin and pulmonary infections. Because of the unfavorable outcome of many MRSA infections with the standard glycopeptide therapy, new antimicrobial agents belonging to various classes have been introduced and have been evaluated in clinical trials for their efficacy in treating resistant staphylococcal infections. A number of preventive strategies have also been suggested to contain the spread of such infections. In this review, we address the recent changes in the epidemiology of S. aureus and their impact on the clinical manifestations and management of serious infections. We also discuss new treatment modalities for MRSA infections and emphasize the importance of preventive approaches.
Insights
Staphylococcus aureus, particularly methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA), is increasingly prevalent in the community, causing severe infections. This review covers updated epidemiology, new treatments, and prevention strategies for MRSA.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology of Bacterial Infections
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Context:
- Staphylococcus aureus is a significant human pathogen causing deep-seated infections.
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is rapidly spreading from hospitals to the community.
- Community-acquired MRSA poses risks for household transmission and severe skin/pulmonary infections.
Purpose:
- To review recent epidemiological shifts in Staphylococcus aureus infections.
- To discuss the clinical manifestations and management of serious S. aureus and MRSA infections.
- To highlight novel treatment modalities and preventive strategies for MRSA.
Summary:
- The review examines evolving S. aureus epidemiology and its clinical impact.
- It details current and emerging therapeutic options for MRSA infections, including new antimicrobial agents.
- Preventive measures are emphasized to control the spread of resistant strains.
Impact:
- Informs clinicians about the changing landscape of S. aureus and MRSA infections.
- Provides insights into effective management strategies for difficult-to-treat resistant infections.
- Underscores the critical need for robust infection control and prevention protocols.
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