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The Identification & Detection of MRSA

MRSA or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, is an especially virulent form of bacteria, capable of producing severe, potentially lethal infections. Due to the seriousness of MRSA-related illnesses, rapid detection is crucial. Early identification and prompt treatment usually offers a more favorable outcome.

  1. Significance

    • Patients may detect a painful, pus-filled wound, such as an abscess or infected pimple or skin condition resembling cellulitis, which may indicate MRSA. If MRSA is in the blood or lungs, no outward skin infection may be present and it may be more difficult to identify.

    Identification

    • MRSA bacterium can only be identified through clinical testing of body fluids or tissues samples, such as nasal secretions, blood or the swabs from the skin wound.

    Potential

    • Samples of sputum or urine may also be obtained to detect MRSA bacterium, especially if the patient has risk factors such as exposure to MRSA or has had a catheter.

    Culture Analysis

    • Several methods for identifying MRSA involve culturing bacteria from samples--a process that may take 24 to 72 hours.

    Rapid Testing

    • New rapid blood testing methods requires only two hours for highly accurate clinical detection of MRSA, says U.S. News and World Report. A rapid nasal swab test has also become available, with similar two-hour results.

    Considerations

    • Some hospitals screen patients as a precaution to detect carriers who may be colonized with MRSA.

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