MRSA Decolonization and the Eye: A Potential New Tool for Ophthalmologists

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause vision-threatening infections of the ocular surface, orbit, and periorbital structures. MRSA decolonization is a widespread technique employed outside of ophthalmology to reduce MRSA transmission and infection rates. Herein we explore whether decolonization protocols have a place in ophthalmology for combatting ocular MRSA infections.

We conducted a focused review of the MRSA decolonization literature using PubMed and Cochrane databases to identify key studies in ophthalmology and the broader medical literature.

We summarize the relevance of the recent literature from an ophthalmic perspective, focusing on the clinical evidence supporting pre-operative MRSA decolonization. We also discuss current real-world decolonization practices, existing challenges, and propose recommendations for future opportunities to address these issues.

Incorporating pre-operative MRSA decolonization approaches discussed herein may offer a new frontier for enhancing the ophthalmic care of patients colonized with MRSA.