Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infection in the Hand. Issue 3 (March 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harrison, Bridget; Ben-Amotz, Oded; Sammer, Douglas M.
• Is Part Of: Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Volume 135:Issue 3(2015:Mar.)
• Publication Date: 2015-03
• Subjects: Surgery, Plastic -- Periodicals; 617.95205
• DOI: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000000952
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-1052

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus has become an increasingly common cause of skin and soft-issue infections. The purpose of this study was to review and summarize the most recent literature on methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections of the hand. Methods: The English-language literature related to methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections of the hand was reviewed, and information related to the history, epidemiology, clinical presentation, and treatment of methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections of the hand was summarized. Results: Community-acquired methicillin-resistant S. aureus hand infections have increased rapidly in prevalence over the past two decades. The prevalence varies markedly around the world, but in the United States, community-acquired methicillin-resistant S. aureus now causes the majority of purulent hand infections. Conclusions: Purulent hand infections should be treated with surgical drainage. When antibiotics are indicated, empiric coverage for community-acquired methicillin-resistant S. aureus should be provided if local prevalence rates exceed 10 to 15 percent.