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Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA
Published on: February 9, 2011
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus pericarditis causing cardiac tamponade
Maedeh Ganji1, Jose Ruiz1, William Kogler2
1University of Florida-COM, Division of Cardiology, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
Abstract:
Community acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an organism that can cause life threatening injuries with 6 cases of purulent pericarditis secondary to MRSA being reported so far. We report a 66 year-old -female who presented to our hospital with a two-week history of worsening shortness of breath, associated with pleuritic chest pain and chills. Patient was found to be positive for influenza type A virus two weeks prior to this presentation, but was never treated. Physical exam upon arrival showed muffled heart sounds and jugular venous distention. Electrocardiogram showed diffuse ST segment elevations along with PR segment depressions in anterolateral leads. She underwent emergent transthoracic echocardiogram that demonstrated a large pericardial effusion most noticeable around the right ventricle with impedance of right ventricle filling. Patient had a pericardial window performed and purulent fluid was drained. Pericardial fluid cultures grew MRSA. Patient was started on vancomycin along with colchicine for MRSA pericarditis and became hemodynamically stable. Pericarditis due to MRSA is extremely rare, especially in the antimicrobial era and in the absence of prior surgical interventions.
Insights
Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) can cause severe infections. This case highlights a rare instance of MRSA-induced purulent pericarditis, emphasizing the need for vigilance in diagnosing such life-threatening conditions.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are a growing concern.
- Purulent pericarditis is a rare but serious cardiac emergency.
- Previous reports of MRSA-related purulent pericarditis are extremely limited.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old female presented with dyspnea, pleuritic chest pain, and chills.
- The patient had a preceding influenza A infection.
- Physical examination revealed muffled heart sounds and jugular venous distention.
Findings:
- Electrocardiogram showed diffuse ST segment elevations and PR segment depressions.
- Echocardiogram revealed a large pericardial effusion impairing right ventricular filling.
- Pericardial fluid cultures confirmed MRSA infection.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for MRSA to cause severe cardiac complications like purulent pericarditis.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics (e.g., vancomycin) and supportive care are crucial for patient outcomes.
- The rarity of this condition, even in the antimicrobial era, highlights the importance of considering unusual pathogens in refractory pericarditis.
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