Staphylococcus aureus associated with toxic shock syndrome: phage typing and toxin capability testing

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Staphylococcus aureus phage types 29 and 52 are associated with toxic shock syndrome.
• These phage types exhibit a high capacity for producing pyrogenic exotoxin C and enterotoxin F.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the origin and development of toxigenic Staphylococcus aureus strains.
• To track the prevalence and toxigenic capabilities of specific phage types over time.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 25,220 Staphylococcus aureus isolates from a staphylococcal bank (1960-1979).
• Phage typing and assessment of pyrogenic exotoxin C and enterotoxin F production.

Main Results:

• Phage types 29 and 52 were identified in 64.1% of toxic shock syndrome isolates.
• Prevalence of these phage types increased from 1960, peaking between 1971-1979.
• Toxigenic capabilities were acquired around 1971 and increased until 1975.
• These strains emerged as significant pathogens in surgical wounds, burns, and other infections by 1980-1981.

Conclusions:

• Phage types 29 and 52 Staphylococcus aureus strains have evolved into significant pathogens.
• The rise in prevalence and toxigenicity of these strains has implications for public health and infection control.