Community-Associated MRSA

Overview

Community-associated MRSA (CA-MRSA) is MRSA contracted outside of the healthcare setting, usually in healthy individuals. CA-MRSA is associated with many serious infections; however, skin infections are the most common presentation of CA-MRSA. 

Lethal Toxin

CA-MRSA often carries the Panton-Valentine leukocidin  (PVL) gene allowing it to produce a lethal toxin. 

• The cytotoxin (cell toxin) can destroy both tissue and white blood cells. This categorizes it as a flesh-eating bacteria. 

MRSA Skin Infections 

Skin infections are the most common presentation of CA-MRSA.

Superficial MRSA Skin Infections include:

• Pimples, boils and impetigo 
  
  If left untreated, superficial infections have potential to progress into serious, invasive infections. 

Deep MRSA Skin Infections include:

• MRSA Cellulitis – a deep skin infection extending into underlying tissue.
• MRSA Abscess – a deep pocket of pus.
• Cellulitis and abscesses may be small and localized, or progress into serious/invasive infections. 

Treatment for CA-MRSA

• Most CA-MRSA skin infections can be treated successfully in the outpatient setting. However, if treatment is delayed, serious or life-threatening infections can occur. 
• For treatment details see “Treatment for MRSA” / “MRSA Skin Infections.”