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In vitro antimicrobial susceptibilities of 349 methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates from veterans
1Laboratory Service, Veterans Administration Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK.
Abstract:
Three hundred and forty-nine methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolates from veterans were tested (by disc agar diffusion) for their in vitro activity against 18 antimicrobial agents. At least 90% of the isolates were susceptible to bacitracin, nitrofurantoin, hydrogen peroxide, novobiocin, netilmicin and vancomycin. We feel that the aminoglycoside, netilmicin, might provide an alternative agent (to intravenously administered vancomycin) for treating multiply-antimicrobial resistant MRSA. In addition, hydrogen peroxide exhibited very good activity against the test isolates and may have some use as a topical agent for reduction of MRSA on skin and some mucous membranes. This study suggests that further evaluation of netilmicin and hydrogen peroxide (topical only) might be useful.
Insights
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolates from veterans showed susceptibility to several agents. Netilmicin and topical hydrogen peroxide show promise for treating and reducing MRSA infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant pathogen, particularly in healthcare settings.
- The increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in MRSA necessitates the identification of alternative treatment options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the in vitro activity of 18 antimicrobial agents against 349 MRSA isolates from veterans.
- To identify potential alternative agents for treating multidrug-resistant MRSA infections.
Main Methods:
- Disc agar diffusion method was employed to test the susceptibility of MRSA isolates.
- Susceptibility testing was performed against 18 different antimicrobial agents.
Main Results:
- Over 90% of MRSA isolates were susceptible to bacitracin, nitrofurantoin, hydrogen peroxide, novobiocin, netilmicin, and vancomycin.
- Netilmicin demonstrated potential as an alternative to intravenous vancomycin for multidrug-resistant MRSA.
- Hydrogen peroxide showed significant in vitro activity, suggesting topical application for MRSA reduction on skin and mucous membranes.
Conclusions:
- Netilmicin may serve as a viable alternative therapeutic agent for MRSA infections.
- Topical hydrogen peroxide warrants further investigation for its utility in reducing MRSA colonization.
- Further research into netilmicin and topical hydrogen peroxide is recommended for clinical application.