Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 18, 2026
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA
Published on: February 9, 2011
Disseminated methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus infection
David R Perkins1, James A Hall2,3, Lisa M Lopez3,2
1St. George's University School of Medicine, St. George, Grenada.
Introduction:
When clinicians think about Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, what comes to the mind of most is the dreaded methicillin-resistant form. However, clinicians should not forget the methicillin-susceptible type, which is just as virulent.
Case Presentation:
The authors present the case of a 20-year-old woman who was admitted with septic shock and multi-organ failure and was found to have disseminated methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) infection. The patient had persistent blood cultures positive for MSSA. A transesophageal echocardiogram showed a 1.1 cm vegetation in the mitral valve, and the patient had bilateral pleural effusions that grew MSSA. An MRI of the brain showed multiple areas consistent with infarctions thought to be secondary to septic emboli. The patient underwent a mitral valve replacement and was treated with a prolonged course of parenteral nafcillin.
Discussion:
This case illustrates a severe clinical presentation and management of MSSA infections.
Insights
Methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) can cause severe, disseminated infections leading to septic shock and multi-organ failure. Prompt diagnosis and treatment, including valve replacement and antibiotics, are crucial for managing MSSA infections.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) is often overlooked, despite its significant virulence.
- Clinicians must recognize MSSA's potential to cause severe disease, similar to its methicillin-resistant counterpart.
Observation:
- A 20-year-old woman presented with septic shock and multi-organ failure due to disseminated MSSA.
- Infection involved persistent bacteremia, a 1.1 cm mitral valve vegetation, and MSSA-positive pleural effusions.
- Brain MRI revealed multiple septic emboli causing infarctions.
Findings:
- The case highlights a severe presentation of MSSA infection.
- Successful management involved mitral valve replacement and prolonged parenteral nafcillin therapy.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical need for vigilance regarding MSSA infections.
- Effective management strategies for severe MSSA infections include aggressive source control and appropriate antibiotic selection.
Related Concept Videos
01:31Pulmonary Tuberculosis III
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
01:31Defense 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...