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Updated: May 14, 2026
12:18
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Cutaneous myiasis masquerading as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Jonathan J Lopez1, Eric E Coris
1Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA. jlopezusf@gmail.com
Summary
Athletes are prone to skin infections, with MRSA often suspected. However, two college athletes were diagnosed with myiasis, a parasitic infection, underscoring the need for broad differential diagnoses in sports medicine.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Athletes face numerous risks for cutaneous infections, frequently presenting in athletic training rooms.
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a common cause of such infections in athletes.
Observation:
- Two college athletes presented with symptoms suggestive of MRSA infection.
- Initial assessment in the athletic training room indicated a possible MRSA diagnosis.
Findings:
- Further investigation revealed the athletes' condition was myiasis, a parasitic infestation, not MRSA.
- Myiasis diagnosis was reached after considering the athletes' recent travel history.
Implications:
- These cases emphasize the importance of a comprehensive differential diagnosis for furuncular lesions in athletes.
- Athletic trainers and healthcare providers should inquire about recent travel to aid in diagnosing unusual cutaneous conditions.
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