Resistance Patterns and Treatment Options for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Abstract

Abstract MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) infections are caused by strains of Staphylococcus aureus which are resistant to antibiotics including methicillin. This methicillin resistance is mediated by genes which are acquired by horizontal transfer of a mobile genetic elements. MRSA is a major public health concern with high morbidity and mortality burden. Risk factors of MRSA infections are delayed hospitalization, prolonged antibiotic use, admission to nursing homes, HIV, hemodialysis, surgery and medical devices. MRSA possess a number of virulence factors which includes production of toxins, enzymes and adhesion proteins. In addition, there are genetic factor that are considered as an essential for S. aureus adaptation towards the stresses posed by the environment, which include most often via the exposure to various classes, potency and doses of antibiotics. Thus for the treatment of MRSA multiple factors need to be considered especially for hospital acquired infections as the strains causing these infections are multidrug restraint. Some MRSA strains are resistant to the entire class of β-lactam antibiotics and have a lower efficiency drugs such as vancomycin. The irrational antibiotic prescription is one of the biggest factor for resistance development. One of the approaches for MRSA treatment is combinational therapy which reduces the chances of drug resistance and enhances the effect of antibiotic i.e. synergism.