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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

Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection in descending necrotizing mediastinitis from retropharyngeal

Habeeba Park1, Natelege Hickman, Florence Freund

  • 1Department of General Surgery, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, MD 21215, USA. hpark@lifebridgehealth.org

Journal of Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing : Official Publication of the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society
|March 16, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Descending necrotizing mediastinitis (DNM) is a severe infection requiring prompt treatment. This case highlights aggressive surgical debridement and antibiotics for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus DNM.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Thoracic Surgery
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • Descending necrotizing mediastinitis (DNM) is a rare, life-threatening infection.
  • It involves rapid spread of infection along fascial planes from the neck to the diaphragm.
  • Early diagnosis and aggressive management are crucial for patient survival.

Observation:

  • This case report details an unusual presentation of DNM.
  • The patient was a 25-year-old woman with no significant prior health issues.
  • The infection was caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Findings:

  • The patient's management necessitated open sternotomy.
  • Frequent surgical debridement was essential to control the infection.
  • Appropriate antibiotic therapy was a key component of treatment.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering DNM even in young, healthy individuals.
  • Aggressive surgical intervention, including debridement and drainage, is vital.
  • Effective antibiotic selection is critical for combating resistant organisms like MRSA in DNM.

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