MRSA infection of buttocks, vulva, and genital tract in women

Abstract

Staphylococcus aureus, although a common commensal bacterium, is a frequent cause of skin and soft tissue infections as well as life-threatening blood stream infections. Resistance to methicillin, which previously was associated with only hospitalized patients, has become a common community-based phenomenon. Less well known is S. aureus vaginal colonization and heterosexual transmission, mainly by skin-mucosa contact. Recognizing the vagina as a reservoir is important and should not be ignored, particularly in women presenting with recurrent genital and buttock boils or if their sexual partner has such infections. Vaginal cultures should be obtained from such women; if the vagina is found to be colonized, eradication of S. aureus from the vagina should be attempted to reduce infection recurrence.