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Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
[Multiple abscesses in immunocompetent patients caused by Panton-Valentine leukocidin positive Staphylococcus aureus]
R-P Vonberg1, L Sedlacek, I F Chaberny
1Institut für Medizinische Mikrobiologie und Krankenhaushygiene, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Strasse 1, 30625 Hannover. Vonberg.Ralf@MH-Hannover.de
Abstract:
We report cases of immunocompetent patients showing multiple abscesses by a Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) positive Staphylococcus aureus. PVL is considered to be an important virulence factor. The most common manifestations by this pathogen are recurrent or multiple abscesses of the skin. Seldom necrotizing pneumonia with high mortality occurs. Even methicillin-resistant PVL positive isolates have been identified in Germany. Only appropriate infection control measures in combination with antimicrobial therapy resulted in successful eradication of this pathogen. Dermatologists should be informed about this specific type of infection and about the appropriate infection control measures.
Insights
Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) positive Staphylococcus aureus can cause severe skin abscesses in immunocompetent individuals. Effective treatment requires both antimicrobial therapy and strict infection control measures.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) is a key virulence factor in Staphylococcus aureus.
- PVL-positive Staphylococcus aureus commonly causes recurrent skin abscesses.
Observation:
- Multiple abscesses were observed in immunocompetent patients infected with PVL-positive Staphylococcus aureus.
- Rarely, necrotizing pneumonia with high mortality has been associated with this pathogen.
Findings:
- Methicillin-resistant PVL-positive Staphylococcus aureus strains have been identified.
- Successful eradication was achieved through combined antimicrobial therapy and infection control.
Implications:
- Dermatologists must be aware of this specific infection and its management.
- Implementing appropriate infection control is crucial for preventing spread.
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Brain Abscess l: Introduction
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
Pneumonia I: Introduction
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Mechanism of Antibiotic Resistance in MRSA
