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Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Empyema necessitans and acute osteomyelitis associated with community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus
Germán A Contreras1, Norma Pérez, James R Murphy
1Division of Pediatrics Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
Abstract:
Staphylococcus aureus is a well recognized pathogen with global distribution. In recent years community-associated, methicillin-resistant S. aureus has emerged as an increasing cause of severe infections among adults and children. Herein, a case is reported of a previously healthy, 19-month-old male, who presented with empyema necessitans and acute osteomyelitis due to a community-associated, methicillin-resistant, S. aureus strain. This report highlights the evolving epidemiology of S. aureus, as important pathogen in the community as well as the hospital setting, and the importance of establishing appropriate guidelines for diagnosis, management and surveillance of this public health problem.
Insights
Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) caused severe empyema necessitans and osteomyelitis in a young child. This case underscores the growing threat of CA-MRSA infections in the community.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus is a globally prevalent pathogen.
- Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is an emerging cause of severe infections in both adults and children.
- Understanding the evolving epidemiology of S. aureus is crucial for public health.
Observation:
- A previously healthy 19-month-old male presented with empyema necessitans and acute osteomyelitis.
- The infection was caused by a community-associated, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strain.
- This case highlights a severe manifestation of CA-MRSA in a pediatric patient.
Findings:
- The pediatric patient developed both empyema necessitans and acute osteomyelitis.
- The causative agent was identified as a community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strain.
- This indicates a significant public health concern regarding the spread and severity of CA-MRSA.
Implications:
- This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing CA-MRSA as a significant community pathogen.
- There is a need for updated guidelines for the diagnosis, management, and surveillance of S. aureus infections.
- Effective public health strategies are required to combat the rising incidence of severe CA-MRSA infections.
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