MRSA colonisation (eradicating colonisation in people without active/invasive infection)

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant pathogen resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics.
• MRSA can colonize individuals, particularly in the nasal passages, and poses a risk for infection, especially in healthcare settings.
• The prevalence of MRSA bloodstream infections is high globally, with many Staphylococcus aureus isolates showing resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the clinical effectiveness and safety of interventions for treating MRSA nasal or extra-nasal colonization.
• To synthesize evidence from systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and observational studies.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major databases (Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library) up to January 2010.
• Included studies comprised systematic reviews, RCTs, and observational studies.
• Searches also incorporated safety alerts from regulatory agencies like the FDA and MHRA.

Main Results:

• Nine systematic reviews, RCTs, or observational studies met the inclusion criteria.
• The review synthesized data on various decolonization strategies.

Conclusions:

• The systematic review provides information on the effectiveness and safety of interventions for MRSA colonization.
• Evaluated interventions include antiseptic body washes, chlorhexidine-neomycin nasal cream, mupirocin nasal ointment, systemic antimicrobials, tea tree oil, and other topical agents.