[Study of Staphylococcus aureus infections in a general acute care hospital (2002-2013)]

Area of Science:

• Medical Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Staphylococcus aureus is a significant pathogen causing both hospital-acquired and community-acquired infections.
• Understanding trends in incidence and antimicrobial resistance is crucial for effective treatment and control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the 12-year incidence, infection sources, and antimicrobial resistance patterns of Staphylococcus aureus in adult and pediatric patients.
• To identify trends in hospital-onset versus community-onset infections and the emergence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 2125 adult and 361 pediatric cases of Staphylococcus aureus infections.
• Analysis of infection incidence, foci, sources, and antimicrobial resistance profiles over a twelve-year period.
• Statistical analysis to determine significant trends in incidence and resistance.

Main Results:

• Adult patient incidence decreased significantly in the last three years, while pediatric incidence increased significantly over the last five years.
• A notable rise in skin and associated structure infections was observed in both populations, often leading to bacteremia.
• Methicillin-resistance (MRSA) increased substantially in pediatric patients (28% to 78%) and remained around 50% in adults. Community-onset MRSA (CO-MRSA) showed a significant increase, particularly in skin infections.

Conclusions:

• Staphylococcus aureus remains a primary cause of hospital-onset infections, but community-onset infections are increasing, especially those involving skin and soft tissues.
• The rising incidence of MRSA, particularly CO-MRSA, necessitates updated treatment guidelines and infection control strategies.
• Divergent incidence trends in adult and pediatric populations highlight the need for tailored public health interventions.