Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: A review

Authors

Michael J. Rybak, Wayne State University School of Medicine
L. LaPlante, University of Rhode Island

Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

1-1-2005

Abstract

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a common bacterial pathogen responsible for a variety of infections in both children and adults. Treatment of infections caused by this organism is problematic due to its resistance to many drugs. Recent reports of community-associated MRSA (CA-MRSA) infections in patients with no known risk factors have serious public health implications. Therapeutic options for these infections are untested; therefore, the potential exists for high morbidity and mortality. Recently, clinical definitions have been established, and new molecular approaches have allowed investigators to distinguish CA-MRSA more easily from traditional nosocomial-derived MRSA strains. Identifying potential risk factors for CA-MRSA acquisition and fully characterizing the epidemiologic, clinical, and molecular properties of these strains are necessary to provide effective therapeutic guidelines.

Publication Title, e.g., Journal

Pharmacotherapy

Volume

25

Issue

1

Citation/Publisher Attribution

Rybak, Michael J., and L. LaPlante. "Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: A review." Pharmacotherapy 25, 1 (2005): 74-85. doi: 10.1592/phco.25.1.74.55620.