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Growing a Cystic Fibrosis-Relevant Polymicrobial Biofilm to Probe Community Phenotypes
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Patient segregation and aggressive antibiotic eradication therapy can control methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus

S J Doe1, A McSorley, B Isalska

  • 1Manchester Adult CF Centre, University Hospitals of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M23 9LT, UK. simondoe@doctors.org.uk

Journal of Cystic Fibrosis : Official Journal of the European Cystic Fibrosis Society
|January 7, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Strict infection control successfully manages methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, achieving high eradication rates. Even long-term infections can be cleared with appropriate antibiotic courses.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pulmonology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Rising prevalence of MRSA in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients necessitates effective management strategies.
  • Current management involves segregation, barrier nursing, and active MRSA eradication protocols.
  • Evaluation of MRSA infection experiences in a large adult CF center is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the center's experience managing MRSA in adult CF patients.
  • To assess the effectiveness of infection control policies and eradication strategies.
  • To determine MRSA incidence and prevalence within the cohort.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of MRSA-positive CF patients from 1998-2008.
  • Molecular identification of MRSA isolates to investigate transmission.
  • Analysis of eradication attempts and treatment outcomes.

Main Results:

  • MRSA incidence and prevalence were maintained below 3% in the large cohort.
  • 15 MRSA pulsotypes were identified; epidemiological data indicated no patient-to-patient transmission.
  • Successful eradication was achieved in 81% of patients within 6 months, with most requiring only one treatment course.

Conclusions:

  • Strict infection control procedures are effective in controlling MRSA and maintaining low prevalence in CF clinics.
  • MRSA eradication is achievable in the majority of patients, regardless of infection duration.
  • Multiple antibiotic courses may be necessary for complete eradication in some cases.

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