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Updated: Jul 30, 2026

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 10, 2011
Methicillin-resistant staphylococci
1Antimicrobics Investigations Branch, Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, Georgia.
Abstract:
Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci are among the most frequent causes of nosocomial infections, in addition to their role in community-acquired infections. The incidence of resistance to penicillinase-resistant penicillins (methicillin, oxacillin, nafcillin, and the cloxacillins) is steadily increasing. These methicillin-resistant staphylococci are usually resistant to several classes of antimicrobial agents.
Insights
Methicillin-resistant staphylococci are increasingly common causes of hospital and community infections. These resistant strains often exhibit multi-drug resistance, complicating treatment options.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci are significant pathogens in both healthcare-associated and community-acquired infections.
- The prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in staphylococcal infections is a growing global health concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the increasing incidence of resistance to penicillinase-resistant penicillins among staphylococcal species.
- To underscore the association between methicillin resistance and resistance to multiple antimicrobial classes.
Main Methods:
- This abstract is based on a review of current epidemiological data and clinical observations regarding staphylococcal infections and antimicrobial resistance patterns.
- Analysis of trends in nosocomial and community-acquired staphylococcal infections.
Main Results:
- Staphylococci, including Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci, are leading causes of nosocomial infections.
- There is a consistent rise in resistance to penicillinase-resistant penicillins, such as methicillin and oxacillin.
- Methicillin-resistant staphylococci frequently display resistance to numerous other antimicrobial agents.
Conclusions:
- The increasing resistance of staphylococci to methicillin and other antibiotics poses a significant challenge for infection control and treatment.
- Effective strategies are needed to combat the spread of multi-drug resistant staphylococcal strains.
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