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Septic arthritis due to methylcyllin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in adults

Sonia Mínguez1, Sonia Molinos2, Lourdes Mateo1

  • 1Servicio de Reumatología, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Barcelona, España.

Reumatologia Clinica
|March 10, 2015
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) septic arthritis is a serious infection in the elderly with high comorbidity. This condition has a higher mortality rate compared to methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) arthritis.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Rheumatology
  • Clinical Microbiology

Background:

  • Septic arthritis caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a growing public health concern, with increasing incidence over the last decade.
  • Understanding the clinical and epidemiological features of MRSA septic arthritis is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of adult MRSA septic arthritis.
  • To compare MRSA native joint infections with those caused by methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA).

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective study was conducted from 1984 to 2011.
  • Clinical and epidemiological data of MRSA arthritis cases were analyzed.
  • MRSA native joint infections were compared to MSSA native joint infections.

Main Results:

  • Fourteen cases of MRSA septic arthritis were identified, predominantly monoarticular, with significant comorbidity but no association with rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Compared to MSSA, MRSA arthritis showed a higher rate of bacteremia (71.4% vs 58.8%) and a trend towards increased mortality (57.1% vs 17.6%).
  • Empirical antibiotic therapy was effective in only 28.6% of MRSA cases versus 100% of MSSA cases.

Conclusions:

  • MRSA septic arthritis is a severe condition affecting elderly patients with substantial comorbidities, typically presenting as monoarticular infection with positive blood cultures.
  • The mortality rate for MRSA septic arthritis is notably higher than for MSSA arthritis.
  • Empirical vancomycin therapy is recommended for at-risk patients to address potential MRSA infections.
Keywords:
Artritis sépticaMethicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureusSeptic arthritisStaphylococcus aureus resistente a la meticilina

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