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Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Dual perinephric and prostatic abscesses from methacillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Aaron A R Tobian1, Scott K Ober
1Department of Medicine, Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
This case report details a rare instance of simultaneous perinephric and prostatic abscesses caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in a diabetic patient. It highlights MRSA as a potential pathogen in these combined infections.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Perinephric and prostatic abscesses typically stem from urinary tract infections and are rarely caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
- These two types of abscesses have not been previously reported to occur concurrently.
Observation:
- A 56-year-old male with uncontrolled diabetes and recent self-digital rectal examinations presented with urinary symptoms.
- Clinical examination revealed bilateral costovertebral angle tenderness and a tender, enlarged prostate.
- Blood and urine cultures identified MRSA, and CT scans confirmed both a right perinephric abscess and a prostatic abscess.
Findings:
- This case represents the first documented instance of simultaneous perinephric and prostatic abscesses.
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was identified as the causative agent in both abscesses.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider MRSA in the differential diagnosis of combined perinephric and prostatic abscesses.
- This case underscores the importance of comprehensive diagnostic evaluation in complex urinary tract infections, especially in immunocompromised patients.
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