Multi-Site Infections Caused by Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus in a Six-Year Old Girl: A Rare Case Report

Abstract

Background Community-associated Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is an emerging pathogen that leads to severe outcomes, especially in pediatric patients with multiple site infections. Case presentation: We report a case of a multiple organ and life-threatening infection caused by CA-MRSA in a 6-year-old girl who manifested sepsis, myelitis, purulent arthritis, purulent meningitis, hydropericardium, pneumonia, and empyema. The girl exhibited good response to the combination therapy of linezolid and rifampicin after treatment with vancomycin failed due to delay in achieving target serum concentration. We performed pleural effusion and hydropericardium effusion drainage and treated left lower limb infection using interdisciplinary approaches. Conclusion This case highlights the need to be aware of CA-MRSA infection, which requires accurate diagnosis, identification of site infection, appropriate antibiotic treatment, and surgical debridement.

An unusual case of multiple skin abscesses caused by methicillin-resistant <i>Staphylococcus aureus </i>in a 6-year-old boy

“…Here, we present a case involving a child with a multi-site infection, aiming to share our experience in enhancing the success rate of treatment in similar clinical scenarios in the future. The severe infection in this child is attributed to MRSA, identified as the causative agent [4]. S. aureus has the capability to produce various exotoxins with diverse effects.…”

“…S. aureus has the capability to produce various exotoxins with diverse effects. MRSA, in particular, triggers an intensified inflammatory response, tissue necrosis, and pus formation, often requiring surgical intervention [4]. Unlike nosocomial-acquired MRSA infections, CA-MRSA infections frequently manifest in immunocompetent individuals without MRSA-associated risk factors, tend to be susceptible to most nonβ-lactam antibiotics, and can be virulent and fatal [1].…”

“…Given the high colonization rates of S. aureus, infection risks are significant [3]. The notorious antibiotic resistance of S. aureus, particularly MRSA, necessitates the exploration of effective antibiotic options, crucial for mitigating the higher mortality rates associated with MRSA infections [4]. In critically ill children, there is a need for prompt initiation of empiric broad-spectrum antibiotics upon admission.…”