Publication Details
Abstract
Objective: The aim of the present study was to molecularly characterize the MRSA isolates obtained through wound infection specimens, with a special concern on the identification of the mecA resistance gene and the presence of the major toxin genes such as Panton-Valentine Leukocidin (lukSF-PV), toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 (tst) and staphylococcal enterotoxins (sea, seb). Method: Wound swabs were treated with common bacteriological procedures and confirmed Staphylococcus aureus isolates were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing and then to multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to be molecularly characterized. Results: Findings indicated that there was a significant prevalence of mecA-positive MRSA isolates in wound infection specimens and there was a high level of co-carriage of toxin genes most notably lukSF-PV and tst. These two characteristics (resistance and virulence determinants) of wound-related strains of MRSA highlight the dual risks that such strains present to patient and infection control. Novelty: The results highlight the significant importance of molecular diagnostic techniques in combination with regular clinical microbiology practice to facilitate proper identification of MRSA and influence clinical decision-making, as well as epidemiological monitoring.