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Updated: May 29, 2026

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Antibiotic treatments of a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius infection in a dog: a case
P Decristophoris1, F Mauri, F Albanese
1Istituto cantonale di microbiologia, Bellinzona.
Abstract:
We report the antibiotic treatments administered to a female dog with mastitis and successive pyoderma. Microbiological investigations allowed the identification of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius after 54 days of various antibiotic treatments. The isolate carried the mecA gene and was resistant to 9 of 15 tested antibiotics. Consistent antibiotic treatment of the infection was possible only after accurate microbiological diagnosis.
Insights
Accurate diagnosis is key for treating Staphylococcus pseudintermedius infections in dogs. This study highlights the importance of microbiological identification for effective antibiotic therapy in canine mastitis and pyoderma.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Mastitis and pyoderma are common canine infections.
- Antibiotic resistance poses a significant challenge in veterinary medicine.
Observation:
- A female dog presented with mastitis and subsequent pyoderma.
- Initial treatments were administered over 54 days.
Findings:
- Microbiological investigation identified Staphylococcus pseudintermedius.
- The isolate harbored the mecA gene, conferring resistance to methicillin.
- The bacteria exhibited resistance to 9 out of 15 tested antibiotics.
Implications:
- Accurate microbiological diagnosis is crucial for effective antibiotic selection.
- This case underscores the need for susceptibility testing in treating resistant bacterial infections in companion animals.
- Understanding resistance mechanisms like the mecA gene is vital for veterinary treatment strategies.
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