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Updated: Jul 3, 2026

Multiplex PCR Assay for Typing of Staphylococcal Cassette Chromosome Mec Types I to V in Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Published on: September 5, 2013
Novel multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis method for rapid molecular typing of human Staphylococcus
Risma Ikawaty1, Rob J L Willems, Adrienne T A Box
1Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
We evaluated a novel multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA) for typing Staphylococcus aureus. This rapid method showed the highest discriminatory power for clinical isolates, correctly identifying outbreaks.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
- Molecular typing
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus is a significant human pathogen.
- Accurate epidemiological typing is crucial for infection control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA) method for typing human Staphylococcus aureus.
- To assess the discriminatory power and utility of MLVA for outbreak investigation.
Main Methods:
- Multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis (MLVA) was developed and applied.
- 150 clinical isolates of Staphylococcus aureus were analyzed.
Main Results:
- MLVA demonstrated the highest discriminatory power among typing methods evaluated.
- The method accurately assigned isolates to specific outbreaks.
- Unlinked isolates were correctly identified, distinguishing them from outbreak-related strains.
Conclusions:
- MLVA is a rapid and simple method for the epidemiological typing of Staphylococcus aureus.
- This technique is highly effective for distinguishing between outbreak-associated and sporadic S. aureus infections.
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