Molecular epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus colonization

Abstract

Rodriguez et al performed a year-long prospective study of molecular epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus colonization of 163 children with S aureus skin and soft tissue infections and their 562 household contacts. Samples of the infected site of index cases and swabs from potential colonizing sites of nares, axilla, and inguinal folds were obtained repeatedly from cases and once at case diagnosis from households. Strain relatedness was determined by repetitive sequence-based PCR testing. Results refuted a simplistic idea that a single strain affected a single patient or a single household, let alone multiple patients and multiple households. The study clarifies only the complexity of S aureus niches, potential modes of acquisition and transmission of colonizing organisms, and events that lead to infection. A better understanding of each will be required before postulating and studying strategies for control or eradication. Article page 105▶ Molecular Epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus in Households of Children with Community-Associated S aureus Skin and Soft Tissue InfectionsThe Journal of PediatricsVol. 164Issue 1PreviewAlthough colonization traditionally is considered a risk factor for Staphylococcus aureus infection, the relationship between contemporary S aureus colonization and infection is not well characterized. We aimed to relate the presence of colonizing and disease-causing strains of S aureus within individuals and households. Full-Text PDF