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A Look at MRSA Infections

MRSA is a variety of staph infection. However, there is no such thing as a standard MRSA infection - it can affect a wide range of body systems. Here is a look at some of the more common types of MRSA infections.

First, you need to understand a little about the MRSA bug. On its own, it is relatively harmless. About thirty percent of people are colonized by the MRSA bacteria, with a higher percentage of cases found in hospitals. The bacteria can be found in the nose and in the folds of the skin like in the armpit or the groin. However, as long as it stays there, it does not cause a problem. However, a simple cut or wound can cause those bacteria to work its way into the body, causing a hard to treat infection.

Once the MRSA bacteria works its way into the system, it can infect a variety of systems. Sometimes the symptoms are ambiguous and can be confused with other bacterial infections.

The most common type of MRSA infection is a wound infection - either from an injury or a surgical site. The wound will appear red and inflamed and will have yellow pus. It may have difficulty healing or break open into a large open sore.

Diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers, and varicose ulcers are all sites of MRSA infection. These are caused by reduced blood supply and skin damage.

The entry point for an IV catheter can be a site of MRSA infection. It will cause inflammation around the entry site and pus, and if left untreated the MRSA bacteria can enter the blood system and cause an infection there.

If MRSA does get into the blood stream, it can travel elsewhere in the body and cause deep abscesses. Symptoms may include fever, elevated white blood cell count, and inflammation. The patient may feel ill and suffer from chills or shock. If it continues to remain untreated, the patient can suffer from tissue loss, weight loss, and organ failure.

In Intensive Care Units, the MRSA bacteria can cause a rare lung infection. While in Intensive Care, the patient may be on a ventilator to help assist them with breathing. This ventilator bypasses the defenses of the nose and throat, entering the lungs and causing potentially fatal pneumonia.

MRSA can also enter the blood stream, either from an infection or by a catheter placed in the blood stream. Presence of the MRSA bacteria in the bloodstream can lead to bacteraemia, which in turn can lead to septicemia, a severe illness causing fever, high white blood cell count, rigors, bleeding disorders, and organ failure. This tends to be the most fatal version of MRSA infections.

Only a doctor can identify an MRSA infection over another bacterial infection. If you suspect that you are developing an infection, particularly if you have been in the hospital recently for surgery or injury treatment, see your doctor as soon as possible to be evaluated. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of MRSA leads to the highest success rate of treating the bug.