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Updated: Sep 10, 2025
Biosensor for Detection of Antibiotic Resistant Staphylococcus Bacteria
Published on: May 8, 2013
Molecular characterization and antibiotic susceptibility of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in
Samah Radwan1, Dalia Y Kadry1, Rana Hamdy2
1Clinical Pathology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
Objective:
This study aims to analyze MRSA isolates from pediatric cancer patients, determine the prevalence of PVL genes and assess their clinical implications.
Introduction:
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections pose significant challenges in pediatric oncology settings. Understanding the prevalence, genotypic characteristics, and antibiotic resistance patterns of MRSA aids in improving patients' outcomes.
Methods:
A total of 120 S. aureus isolates from patients receiving chemotherapy for treatment of malignant diseases and developing BSIs during febrile episodes were examined. Isolates were identified using Gram staining, biochemical tests, and VITEK 2-Compact 15. Antimicrobial susceptibility was tested using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Molecular characterization included PCR assays for 16S rDNA, multiplex PCR for femA, mecA, and PVL genes, and SCCmec type.
Results:
Out of 120 isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, 97 (80%) isolate possessed mecA gene and were identified as MRSA, MRSA bacteremia harboring PVL gene was detected in cancer patients in Egypt at 26.8% of MRSA isolates. The study identified a higher fatality rate in patients aged 6-10 years (26.7%) compared to other age groups (p < 0.044). Deceased patients exhibited higher leukocyte counts and lower platelet counts. Solid tumor patients had significantly higher neutrophil and monocyte counts. Type II of SCCmec correlated with survival and mortality, with the PVL gene being a significant factor. Type III showed a higher prevalence of femA and mecA among survivors, while Type IVb was associated with better outcomes. Antibiotic susceptibility revealed high resistance to cefoxitin, cefepime, and Tazocin, but better sensitivity to ciprofloxacin and gentamicin, particularly in Types IV and V.
Conclusion:
The study highlights the age-related fatality differences and the impact of HCV infection on survival rates. Hematologic parameters and SCCmec types play a crucial role in patient outcomes. The observed antibiotic resistance patterns necessitate the need for targeted therapies based on MRSA SCCmec types.
Insights
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in pediatric cancer patients shows varied outcomes based on SCCmec type and PVL gene presence. Targeted therapies are needed due to high antibiotic resistance.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Oncology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) presents significant challenges in pediatric oncology.
- Understanding MRSA genotypic characteristics and resistance patterns is crucial for improving outcomes in immunocompromised children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze MRSA isolates from pediatric cancer patients.
- To determine the prevalence of Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) genes.
- To assess the clinical implications and outcomes associated with MRSA infections in this vulnerable population.
Main Methods:
- Identified 120 Staphylococcus aureus isolates from pediatric cancer patients with bloodstream infections (BSIs).
- Performed antimicrobial susceptibility testing and molecular characterization, including PCR for mecA, PVL, and SCCmec typing.
- Analyzed clinical data, including patient demographics, hematologic parameters, and survival rates.
Main Results:
- 80% of isolates were MRSA; 26.8% of MRSA isolates harbored the PVL gene.
- Higher fatality rates were observed in children aged 6-10 years.
- Specific SCCmec types (II, III, IVb) showed correlations with survival, mortality, and antibiotic resistance patterns.
Conclusions:
- Age-related fatality differences and specific SCCmec types significantly impact outcomes in pediatric cancer patients with MRSA BSIs.
- Hematologic parameters and PVL gene presence are critical factors influencing patient survival.
- Observed antibiotic resistance necessitates tailored therapeutic strategies based on MRSA SCCmec typing.
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