Occult methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus abscesses in 2 pediatric patients

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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

Henry M Feder1

  • 1University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, USA. feder@nso2.uchc.edu

Clinical Pediatrics
|September 18, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Severe MRSA infections, often linked to Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL), are increasing. Consider MRSA antibiotics for children with unexplained fever and a family history of MRSA infections.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Bacteriology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are rising globally.
  • Severe MRSA infections, including necrotizing pneumonia and skin abscesses, are increasingly reported.
  • The Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) virulence factor is frequently associated with severe MRSA infections.

Observation:

  • Two pediatric cases of occult deep tissue abscesses are presented.
  • Both children initially presented with fever of unknown origin.
  • A family history of severe MRSA skin abscesses was noted in both cases.

Findings:

  • Deep tissue abscesses caused by PVL-positive MRSA evolved in both children.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing severe MRSA infections.

Implications:

  • Empiric antibiotic therapy targeting MRSA should be considered for hospitalized infants and children with unexplained fever.
  • A family history of MRSA infection warrants heightened clinical suspicion for severe MRSA disease.
  • Understanding the role of PVL in severe MRSA infections is critical for effective treatment strategies.

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