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Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA
Published on: February 9, 2011
An interesting case of intracerebral MRSA
Robert Estridge1, Shawnelle Contini
1Robert Estridge, Jr., practices at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. Shawnelle Contini practices pediatric and congenital neurosurgery at the Cleveland Clinic. The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
Abstract:
This article describes a patient whose intracerebral MRSA may have been caused by a spider bite to the thigh 2 months earlier. The patient's headache, nausea, and vomiting initially were thought to be caused by a high-grade glioma. Most brain abscesses have otogenic sources and are not from distant hematogenous spread. Although systemic antibiotics help with symptomatology, surgical eradication (when feasible) followed by IV antibiotics, provides definitive treatment.
Insights
A spider bite may have caused a rare brain abscess due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Surgical removal and antibiotics offer the best treatment for this serious infection.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Brain abscesses are typically caused by infections spreading from nearby areas, such as the ear.
- Distant infections spreading to the brain (hematogenous spread) are less common causes of brain abscesses.
Observation:
- A patient presented with symptoms mimicking a brain tumor, including headache, nausea, and vomiting.
- The patient's symptoms were potentially linked to a spider bite on the thigh that occurred two months prior.
- Cerebral abscess caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was diagnosed.
Findings:
- This case suggests a potential link between a peripheral spider bite and the development of an intracerebral MRSA abscess.
- The initial misdiagnosis highlights the challenges in identifying uncommon causes of brain abscesses.
Implications:
- Spider bites, even seemingly minor ones, could potentially lead to severe systemic infections like brain abscesses.
- Early recognition and appropriate treatment, including surgical intervention and intravenous antibiotics, are crucial for managing brain abscesses.
- This case underscores the importance of considering diverse etiologies for central nervous system infections.
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