MRSA pneumonia is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection that can occur in both community and institutional settings. It is usually diagnosed through laboratory analysis and requires aggressive treatment with antibiotics, fluids, and supplemental oxygen. The prognosis depends on the severity of the condition and the timeliness of treatment. Complications can include toxic shock syndrome, organ failure, and the spread of the infection to other parts of the body.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection that settles in an individual’s lungs is known as MRSA pneumonia. The rapid development of this form of staph infection can pose a serious threat to one’s life that requires timely and appropriate medical attention. Treatment for this form of MRSA infection often requires hospitalization and the administration of aggressive antibiotic medications, fluids, and supplemental oxygen. It is essential that all medications are taken up to the final dose to prevent reinfection. Of the many presentations of MRSA infection, MRSA pneumonia has a high mortality rate.
Exposure to MRSA infection can occur both in the community and in an institutional setting, such as a hospital or clinic. Due to the ubiquitous nature of the bacterial pathogen, MRSA is most commonly transmitted through a cut or laceration in the dermis. Healthy individuals exposed to this form of staph bacteria may not experience any signs or symptoms, while others may begin developing signs of infection immediately. It has been suggested that the development of MRSA infection often depends on the overuse of antibiotic drugs for viral diseases, which leaves some individuals vulnerable to bacterial and staph disease.
Because the bacteria enter the body through a skin abrasion, most infections show up as a skin irritation. It is important to note that once staph bacteria enter an individual’s system, they can settle anywhere in the body. When the bacteria settle in the lungs, it is known as MRSA pneumonia and poses a serious threat to the overall health of the individual. More severe manifestations of the infection usually present in those with compromised or weakened immunity due to the presence of a chronic condition, recent infection, or medical procedure.
Requiring hospitalization, staph pneumonia is usually diagnosed in the same way as other forms of MRSA infection. A sample of tissue or secretion, such as a urine analysis, blood culture, or sputum culture, is obtained and sent for laboratory analysis. While awaiting the results of the test, which usually takes up to 48 hours, the individual is typically placed on an aggressive antibiotic regimen and fluids are given to stabilize their condition.
Individuals with this type of pneumonia often develop the same telltale signs and symptoms associated with MRSA infection, in addition to those associated with a pulmonary presentation. During the initial stages of the infection, symptomatic individuals may develop discomfort, pain, and headache. As the infection progresses, some may experience pronounced fatigue, fever, and chills. Once the bacteria settles in the lungs, individuals will often develop shortness of breath and chest pain.
After a diagnosis of MRSA pneumonia is confirmed, aggressive treatment is usually given to rid the body of the infection and prevent complications from developing. A full regimen of aggressive antibiotic medications is usually administered to rid the body of infections and prevent recurring disease. Intravenous (IV) fluids may be given to prevent dehydration, and supplemental oxygen may also be given to help the individual breathe easier. Depending on your level of discomfort, a mild pain reliever may be given to relieve chest pain.
The prognosis associated with MRSA pneumonia depends entirely on the severity of the condition and the timeliness of treatment. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus-induced pneumonia carries a significantly high mortality rate; therefore, prompt and appropriate treatment is essential for a good prognosis. Complications associated with MRSA infection can include toxic shock syndrome, organ failure, and the spread of the infection to other parts of the body, including blood poisoning, sepsis, and cellulitis.
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