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MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant S. Aureus)

Staphylococcus aureus infections resistant to methicillin and multiple antibiotics.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant S. Aureus)?

MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) refers to S. aureus strains resistant to methicillin, oxacillin, and similar beta-lactam antibiotics. There are hospital-acquired (HA-MRSA) and community-acquired (CA-MRSA) forms.

Skin and soft tissue abscesses are the most common clinical presentation; however, severe infections such as bloodstream infection, endocarditis, pneumonia, osteomyelitis, and septic arthritis can also occur.

Treatment is performed with antibiotics such as vancomycin, linezolid, and daptomycin, depending on location and severity.

Symptoms

Painful abscesses, furuncles, cellulitis on skin
Wound infection (post-surgical)
Fever and chills (in invasive infections)
Bone and joint pain
Pneumonia symptoms (cough, shortness of breath)
Endocarditis (heart murmur, embolisms)
Sepsis and shock

Risk Factors

Hospitalization and intensive care
Long-term antibiotic use
Presence of catheters and implants
Patients on dialysis
Athletes, soldiers, and dormitory residents (CA-MRSA)
Conditions with impaired skin barrier
Immunosuppression

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Rapidly enlarging painful abscess on the skin
  • Diffuse redness and fever around a small wound
  • Non-healing surgical wound with purulent discharge
  • High fever, shortness of breath, and toxic appearance
  • New infection signs in a known MRSA-colonized patient

Treatment Methods

01
Drainage and oral antibiotics for small skin abscesses (TMP-SMX, clindamycin, doxycycline)
02
IV vancomycin, daptomycin, linezolid, ceftaroline in severe infections
03
Removal of catheters and implants
04
Decolonization protocols (intranasal mupirocin, chlorhexidine baths)
05
Infection control and contact precautions
06
Family screening in recurrent infections

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.