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Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA
Published on: February 9, 2011
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Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus enterocolitis in a 16-month-old boy: a case report
Christopher Loerke1, Heather Liebe2, Catherine J Hunter3
1The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, 800 Stanton L Young Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA.
Journal of Medical Case Reports
|April 17, 2022
Summary
This case report details the first toddler diagnosed with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus enterocolitis, a rare condition often misdiagnosed. Early consideration of MRSA is crucial when common pathogens are ruled out.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) enterocolitis is rare, primarily affecting immunocompromised adults.
- Pediatric enterocolitis typically involves Gram-negative bacteria, Clostridiodes difficile, or viruses.
- This report presents the first documented case of MRSA enterocolitis in a toddler.
Observation:
- A 16-month-old toddler presented with symptoms initially diagnosed as intussusception, requiring surgical intervention.
- Postoperatively, the patient developed an ileostomy leak and persistent diarrhea despite standard treatments.
- Stool cultures were positive for MRSA after initial negative results for common enteric pathogens.
Findings:
- The toddler was successfully treated with oral vancomycin for MRSA enterocolitis.
- The patient recovered fully, with successful ostomy reversal and no long-term complications.
- This case highlights a rare presentation of MRSA in a young child.
Implications:
- MRSA enterocolitis should be considered in pediatric cases with persistent diarrhea or high ostomy output, especially when C. difficile and other common causes are excluded.
- Recognizing this rare condition is vital for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment in children.
- This case expands the understanding of MRSA infections in pediatric populations.
