Disseminated Methicillin-Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) Infection After Acupuncture Treatment

Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) is a common bacterium found on the skin and may cause severe infections, including bacteremia, endocarditis, and osteomyelitis. Studies have shown that despite antibiotic use, 30-day mortality of MSSA bacteremia remains high. Acupuncture involves the insertion of small needles at particular points in the body and is sometimes used to address pain. Acupuncture may be a rare source of MSSA bacteremia with the introduction of bacteria through compromised skin integrity. Here, we present a case of a 54-year-old female patient found to have disseminated MSSA infection, with bacteremia, multiple abscesses, and osteomyelitis near areas of acupuncture in her right hip. Despite antibiotics, the patient did not improve until adequate source control was obtained through drainage of her multiple abscesses and laminectomy for her lumbar spine osteomyelitis from possible hematogenous spread. Even though acupuncture can be a useful modality to treat pain, this case highlights the need for proper sterilization techniques and expert handling to mitigate the risk of infection.