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Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Role of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in head and neck infections
1Departments of Pediatrics and Medicine, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington DC, USA. ib6@georgetown.edu
Abstract:
The prevalence of infection with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is increasing. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is also being recognised as an important pathogen in head and neck infections. This review summarises studies published over the past two decades which illustrate the growing prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, and the current therapeutic approaches to head and neck infections caused by this bacterium. These infections include sinusitis, otitis, periorbital cellulitis, cervical lymphadenitis, tonsillitis, thyroiditis, retropharyngeal abscess, and abscesses and wounds of the neck. Treatment of head and neck infections associated with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus includes drainage and debridement, as well as administration of local and systemic antimicrobials that provide coverage against these organisms and against potential aerobic and anaerobic pathogens that may be present if the infection is polymicrobial.
Insights
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are rising, particularly in head and neck. Treatment involves drainage, debridement, and targeted antimicrobials for MRSA and other pathogens.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Increasing prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections.
- Recognition of MRSA as a significant pathogen in head and neck infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the growing prevalence of MRSA in head and neck infections over the past two decades.
- To summarize current therapeutic strategies for MRSA head and neck infections.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of studies published over the last 20 years.
- Analysis of MRSA prevalence and treatment approaches.
Main Results:
- MRSA is an increasingly common cause of various head and neck infections.
- Infections include sinusitis, otitis, cervical lymphadenitis, tonsillitis, thyroiditis, and neck abscesses.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of MRSA head and neck infections requires surgical intervention and appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
- Treatment must address MRSA and potential co-infecting aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.
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