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Updated: Jun 18, 2026

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Familial furunculosis associated with community-acquired leukocidin-positive methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus
E Pérez-Roth1, J Alcoba-Flórez, C López-Aguilar
1Unidad de Investigación, Hospital Universitario NS Candelaria, Ctra. del Rosario 100, 38010 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.
Abstract:
Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) is associated with staphylococcal skin and pulmonary infections. Community dissemination of PVL-producing Staphylococcus aureus strains constitutes a public health concern. Family transmission and spread of community-acquired leukocidin-positive methicillin-susceptible S. aureus ST152 isolates associated with severe clinical symptoms are herein described. Remarkably, ST152 isolates usually are methicillin resistant.
Insights
Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) producing Staphylococcus aureus strains are spreading in the community. This study details family transmission of PVL-positive methicillin-susceptible S. aureus ST152, causing severe illness.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) is a toxin produced by Staphylococcus aureus.
- PVL is associated with severe skin and pulmonary infections.
- Community spread of PVL-producing S. aureus is a significant public health concern.
Observation:
- This study describes the family transmission of PVL-positive methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) ST152 isolates.
- These isolates were associated with severe clinical symptoms.
- Notably, ST152 isolates are typically methicillin-resistant.
Findings:
- The study identified community-acquired MSSA ST152 isolates producing PVL.
- These isolates demonstrated familial transmission patterns.
- The infections caused by these strains were clinically severe.
Implications:
- This highlights a potential shift in the epidemiology of PVL-producing S. aureus.
- Understanding transmission dynamics is crucial for public health interventions.
- Further research into ST152 MSSA strains and their clinical impact is warranted.
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