About Us | Privacy | Site Map
May 21, 2013
Font Size
A
A
A

MRSA Infection (cont.)

Medical Author:
Medical Editor:

MRSA Infection Causes

Plasmids, genetic elements that can be transferred from one bacterium to another, cause S. aureus to develop resistance to antibiotics. At least five types of genetic material (SCCmec genes I-V) have been identified. Hospital-acquired MRSA (HA-MRSA) usually have genes I-III while community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) have genes IV-V. HA-MRSA is resistant to more antibiotics than CA-MRSA. These plasmids are strands of DNA, separate from the bacterial genome, which can self-replicate and frequently are responsible for the synthesis of compounds that cause antibiotic resistance in bacteria.

MRSA bacteria can be transmitted by direct (though skin and body fluids) and indirect contact (from towels, diapers, and toys) to uninfected people. Also, some individuals have MRSA on their body (on their skin or in their nose or throat) but show no symptoms of infection; these people are termed MRSA carriers (see above) and can transmit MRSA to others. Statistics show that CA-MRSA is the predominant MRSA type found in the population. Most carriers are best detected by culturing MRSA from nasal swabs.

Must Read Articles Related to MRSA Infection

Abscess
Abscess An abscess is has several causes and can appear on many parts of the body, such as the dental, vaginal, and rectal areas. In general, home remedies or cures are...learn more >>
Antibiotics
Antibiotics Antibiotics are prescribed to individuals to cure disease by killing bacteria. There are over 100 antibiotics. The main classes of antibiotics include penicilli...learn more >>
Boils
Boils A boil is a skin infection that is caused by bacteria, usually Staphylococcus. Fever, swollen lymph nodes, and red, painful, and swollen skin are symptoms of bo...learn more >>

Viewer Comments & Reviews

MRSA - Symptoms

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

What were the symptoms of your MRSA?

MRSA - Describe Your Experience

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

Please describe your experience with MRSA.

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Please acknowledge your agreement




Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Staphylococcal Infections »

Staphylococcal infections are usually caused by the organism Staphylococcus aureus.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


Medical Dictionary


Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick, easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including 24 hour, pharmacies