Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2026

Biosensor for Detection of Antibiotic Resistant Staphylococcus Bacteria
Published on: May 8, 2013
Risk factors for community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus cellulitis--and the value of
Thana Khawcharoenporn1, Alan D Tice, Andrew Grandinetti
1John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813, USA. thanak30@yahoo.com
Obesity and the presence of abscesses are key risk factors for community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) cellulitis. Identifying these factors can guide appropriate antibiotic selection for MRSA infections.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is a significant cause of skin and soft tissue infections.
- Cellulitis, a common bacterial skin infection, can be caused by CA-MRSA, necessitating identification of specific risk factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the independent risk factors associated with CA-MRSA cellulitis.
- To inform clinical decision-making regarding empiric antibiotic therapy for cellulitis.
Main Methods:
- A literature review on CA-MRSA risk factors was conducted.
- A retrospective cohort study analyzed 137 cellulitis cases in an ambulatory-care clinic.
Main Results:
- CA-MRSA was identified in 62% of cellulitis cases, particularly those with abscesses or skin ulcers.
- Obesity (aOR 2.33) and the presence of abscesses (aOR 2.72) were independent risk factors for CA-MRSA cellulitis.
- CA-MRSA patients were less likely to receive appropriate initial antibiotics and more likely to require antibiotic changes.
Conclusions:
- Obesity and the presence of abscesses are significant predictors of CA-MRSA cellulitis.
- Empiric antibiotic treatment for cellulitis should consider these identified risk factors to ensure activity against MRSA.
Related Concept Videos
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
Staphylococcal Skin Infections
Mechanism of Antibiotic Resistance in MRSA
Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin create...
Urine Studies II: Urine Culture and Sensitivity Test