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Updated: Jun 22, 2026
12:18
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
A methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus-positive holospinal epidural abscess
Julie Gorchynski1, Joe Hwang, Thomas McLaughlin
1Department of Emergency Medicine, CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Corpus Christi, Texas, USA. jgorchyn@msn.com
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine
|June 27, 2009
Summary
This case report details a rare methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus holospinal epidural abscess. It highlights the challenges in diagnosing and treating this severe spinal infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurosurgery
- Clinical Case Study
Background:
- Spinal epidural abscess (SEA) is a rare but serious condition with significant morbidity and mortality risks if untreated.
- Staphylococcus aureus is the most common pathogen, accounting for two-thirds of cases.
- The emergence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Observation:
- This report describes the unique case of a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus holospinal epidural abscess, affecting the entire spine.
- The case includes detailed neurological follow-up over a 1-year period.
Findings:
- The study presents the first reported instance of a holospinal epidural abscess caused by MRSA.
- Long-term neurological outcomes following treatment are documented.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering MRSA in spinal epidural abscesses, even in extensive presentations.
- It provides valuable insights into the management and prognosis of this rare and severe infection.
- Further research into MRSA spinal infections is warranted.
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