CA-MRSA Decolonization Strategies: Do They Reduce Recurrence Rate?

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology
• Public Health

Background:

• Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) frequently causes skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs).
• Recurrence of MRSA-SSTIs is common, even after standard treatment like incision and drainage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review evidence on decolonization strategies for reducing MRSA-SSTI recurrence or colonization.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of decolonization in patients with a history of MRSA-SSTI.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review from 1987 to present.
• Included studies focused on decolonization to decrease MRSA-SSTI recurrence.
• Analyzed 12 studies meeting inclusion criteria from an initial search of 754 articles.

Main Results:

• Topical decolonization reduced MRSA colonization rates in four studies.
• Combination decolonization therapy decreased colonization in 3 of 4 studies.
• Despite successful decolonization, MRSA-SSTI recurrence rates did not consistently decrease.

Conclusions:

• Insufficient evidence supports routine decolonization for preventing recurrent MRSA-SSTIs.
• Focus should be on preventing infection spread through hygiene education for patients and contacts.