Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, and Management of Staphylococcus aureus Infections: Insights and Advances in Resistance Mechanisms
Mohammed Saleem Alshammari 1*, Abdullah Jalawi Aldakhil 1, Raed Mohammed Alomair 1, Mohammed Thamr Almutairi 1, Mohammad Abdullah Almanna 1, Fahed Mohammed Alshammri 1, Mohammed Salem Alshammari 1, Sultan Safah A Alharbi 1, Abdalurhman Abdulaziz Almubarak 1, Khalid Obid Abdullah Alruki 1, Mohammed Menwer Alruwaili 1, Saleh Helayyil Saleh Alharbi 1, Taleb Ghazi Thaar Aldalbahi 1, Hatim Bunaydir Bader AImutairi 1, Hassan Duairam Thawab Al-Shahrani 1, Saif Sultan Alsahli 1
Journal of Angiotherapy 1(1) 1-8 https://doi.org/10.25163/angiotherapy.1110066
Submitted: 14 March 2017 Revised: 11 May 2017 Published: 12 May 2017
Abstract
Background: Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of both healthcare-associated and community-associated infections, with a marked increase in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains complicating treatment strategies. MRSA presents significant challenges in clinical settings, not only due to its resistance to common antibiotics but also its ability to cause a range of diseases, from minor skin infections to life-threatening conditions such as bacteremia and endocarditis. The increasing prevalence of MRSA in both human and animal populations underscores the urgent need for updated epidemiological data, novel treatment strategies, and enhanced preventive measures. Methods: This review compiles data from multiple studies and clinical reports on Staphylococcus aureus infections, including its molecular mechanisms, epidemiology, pathophysiology, and current therapeutic approaches. We reviewed scientific articles focusing on MRSA epidemiology, genetic mechanisms of resistance (e.g., staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec), and treatment guidelines issued by health organizations. Additionally, the role of biofilms and virulence factors in Staphylococcus aureus pathogenicity was explored to understand how infections develop and persist. Results: Current findings emphasize a growing concern regarding MRSA, particularly in the context of its increased prevalence in community-associated outbreaks. The genetic underpinnings of methicillin resistance, particularly the role of staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec), continue to evolve, with new variants emerging in both human and animal populations. Recent clinical practice guidelines for MRSA treatment highlight a multifaceted approach, including the use of newer antibiotics, surgical interventions, and, in some cases, the necessity of combining treatments to overcome resistance mechanisms. Studies on the role of biofilms have revealed critical insights into how Staphylococcus aureus evades immune responses and antibiotic treatments, making infections difficult to eradicate. Conclusion: The rising incidence of MRSA infections, coupled with the evolving resistance mechanisms of Staphylococcus aureus, necessitates ongoing surveillance, novel therapeutic strategies, and improved infection control measures. Enhanced understanding of biofilm formation, resistance genetics, and virulence factors will be essential for developing more effective treatments and preventive measures. Continued research into the epidemiology and management of Staphylococcus aureus infections is critical to addressing the growing public health threat posed by MRSA.
Keywords: Staphylococcus aureus, epidemiology, methicillin resistance, biofilm formation, clinical management
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