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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

Skin and soft tissue infection: microbiology and epidemiology

Matthew S Dryden1

  • 1Microbiology and Communicable Disease, Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Winchester SO225DG, UK. matthew.dryden@wehct.nhs.uk

International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents
|June 30, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are common bacterial infections. Emerging community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains present unique challenges and require careful consideration of patient factors.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) represent a spectrum of conditions, from minor to life-threatening.
  • Classification can be based on site, severity, or microbial cause, often categorized as complicated or uncomplicated.
  • Community-acquired SSTIs are typically caused by staphylococci or streptococci, but other pathogens can be involved.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epidemiology and characteristics of skin and soft tissue infections.
  • To highlight the increasing prevalence of community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
  • To discuss factors influencing the microbial etiology of SSTIs.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epidemiological trends in SSTIs.
  • Analysis of microbial causes, including common and emerging pathogens.
  • Identification of risk factors associated with SSTI development.

Main Results:

  • Staphylococci and streptococci are the most frequent causes of community-acquired SSTIs.
  • A rise in both healthcare-associated and community-acquired MRSA has been observed.
  • Community-acquired MRSA strains may possess distinct exotoxin profiles compared to healthcare-associated strains.

Conclusions:

  • SSTIs are a significant public health concern with evolving etiological patterns.
  • The increasing incidence of community-acquired MRSA necessitates updated diagnostic and treatment strategies.
  • Patient-specific factors, including underlying conditions and exposures, play a crucial role in SSTI causation.

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