Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 18, 2026

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Should higher vancomycin trough levels be targeted for invasive community-acquired methicillin-resistant
Natalia Jimenez-Truque1, Isaac Thomsen, Elizabeth Saye
1Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
Abstract:
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates with vancomycin minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) >or=1.5 microg/mL have been associated with poorer clinical outcomes and treatment failures in adults. We evaluated vancomycin MICs in 71 invasive pediatric community-acquired MRSA isolates from 2004 to 2008, using the E-test micromethod and the E-test macro-method. The modal MIC by micromethod was 1.5 microg/mL, and median vancomycin MICs did not increase over time.
Insights
Vancomycin resistance in pediatric MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) remains stable. This study found no increase in vancomycin MICs in invasive pediatric MRSA isolates from 2004-2008.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant pathogen.
- Elevated vancomycin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) in MRSA are linked to poor outcomes in adults.
- Understanding vancomycin susceptibility in pediatric MRSA is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate vancomycin MICs in invasive pediatric community-acquired MRSA isolates.
- To determine if vancomycin MICs have increased over time in this population.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 71 invasive pediatric community-acquired MRSA isolates collected between 2004 and 2008.
- Determination of vancomycin MICs using both E-test micromethod and E-test macro-method.
Main Results:
- The modal vancomycin MIC observed was 1.5 microg/mL using the micromethod.
- Median vancomycin MICs did not demonstrate an increasing trend over the study period (2004-2008).
Conclusions:
- Vancomycin susceptibility in invasive pediatric MRSA isolates remained consistent during the study period.
- The findings suggest a stable susceptibility profile, which is important for guiding pediatric MRSA treatment strategies.
Related Concept Videos
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Mechanism of Antibiotic Resistance in MRSA
Estimation of k and VD of Aminoglycosides
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Metabolism
Staphylococcal Skin Infections