Management of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus mediated ventilatorassociated pneumonia

Abstract

This review paper focuses on prevention strategies and clinical management of methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in ventilated patients who develop ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Since MRSA are the most frequently isolated bacteria in patients with VAP, and a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in intubated patients, rapid diagnosis and early treatment could reduce mortality. By taking a few preventive steps (i.e. screening ventilated patients for MRSA, decolonization, and handwashing), MRSA-associated VAP can be effectively controlled. Clinical presentations can be used before the results of culture are obtained to direct empiric treatment, but upon culture confirmation of MRSA, the use of an appropriate antibiotic therapy earlier on could help in the management of VAP. Vancomycin or linezolid are the current drugs of choice for MRSA-associated VAP, while new drugs and monoclonal antibodies are in clinical trials.