Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 18, 2026

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA
Published on: February 9, 2011
[Severe infection by methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus producing Panton-Valentine leukocidin: reports of
Martín Brizuela1, Guadalupe Pérez2, Silvina Ruvinsky2
1Servicio de Control Epidemiológico e Infectología, Hospital de Pediatría "Profesor Dr. Juan P. Garrahan", Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina. martin.brizuela1984@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Staphylococcus aureus is a major etiologic agent of infections in children from the community and the hospital setting. The severity of these conditions is associated with virulence factors, including the Panton-Valentine leukocidin. Both methicillin resistant and sensitive Staphylococcus aureus produce this leukocidin although with varying frequency. We present two children with severe infection by sensitive Staphylococcus aureus producer of Panton-Valentine leukocidin with musculoskeletal and endovascular complications. It is essential the suspected diagnosis, appropriate antibiotic treatment and early surgical management to improve the approach of these infections. Epidemiological surveillance should be mantained to detect the frequency of infections caused by these bacteria.
Insights
Severe Staphylococcus aureus infections in children can stem from Panton-Valentine leukocidin-producing strains. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing these serious pediatric infections.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Microbial Pathogenesis
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of pediatric infections in both community and hospital settings.
- The Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) is a key virulence factor associated with severe S. aureus infections.
- Both methicillin-resistant (MRSA) and methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) S. aureus can produce PVL, though frequencies vary.
Observation:
- This study details two pediatric cases of severe infection caused by PVL-producing methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA).
- The children presented with significant musculoskeletal and endovascular complications.
- These cases highlight the potential severity of PVL-positive MSSA infections.
Findings:
- Panton-Valentine leukocidin-producing methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus can cause severe invasive infections in children.
- Musculoskeletal and endovascular complications are significant risks associated with these infections.
- The presence of PVL in MSSA strains contributes to disease severity.
Implications:
- Early and accurate diagnosis of PVL-producing S. aureus infections is critical for effective management.
- Prompt antibiotic therapy and surgical intervention are essential for improving patient outcomes.
- Continued epidemiological surveillance is necessary to monitor the prevalence of PVL-positive S. aureus strains in pediatric populations.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Endocarditis I: Introduction
Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
Endocarditis IV: Nursing Management

