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Staphylococcus aureus colonization in community-dwelling people with spinal cord dysfunction.
Mary-Claire Roghmann1, Peter H Gorman, Mitchell T Wallin
1VA Maryland Health Care System, Baltimore, MD, USA. mroghman@epi.umaryland.edu
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|August 7, 2007
Summary
Staphylococcus aureus perineal colonization is common in adults with spinal cord dysfunction (SCD). Fluoroquinolone use increases colonization risk, and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) is often found without prior history.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- * *Staphylococcus aureus* (S. aureus) colonization is a significant public health concern.
- * Perineal colonization by S. aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA), is understudied, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To determine the prevalence of S. aureus perineal colonization in adults with spinal cord dysfunction (SCD).
- * To identify risk factors associated with S. aureus perineal colonization in this population.
Main Methods:
- * A cross-sectional study was conducted with 84 community-dwelling adults with SCD.
- * Data on S. aureus colonization (perineum and anterior nares) and potential risk factors were collected.
- * Follow-up extended up to one year.
Main Results:
- * 24% of participants had S. aureus perineal colonization (16% susceptible, 10% resistant to methicillin).
- * Trauma-related SCD and pelvic decubiti were associated with increased S. aureus colonization.
- * Recent fluoroquinolone use significantly correlated with perineal colonization.
Conclusions:
- * S. aureus perineal colonization is prevalent in outpatients with SCD.
- * Fluoroquinolone antibiotic use is a risk factor for S. aureus perineal colonization.
- * Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) colonization frequently occurred without a prior history of MRSA.
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