title: Methicillin-resistant Staphyloccocus aureus heel abscess: an uncommon emergency department diagnosis.
abstract: Heel abscesses present as heel pain that progressively worsens, with associated tenderness and fullness at the heel pad. Radiological studies like computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or ultrasound can help correctly diagnose a heel pad abscess. Generally, these patients require i.v. antibiotics and operative management to adequately drain the abscess. It is recommended to avoid incising the plantar aspect of the heel to minimize chronic post-drainage heel pain.
authors.affiliation: Department of Emergency Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA.
authors.forename: Michael P
authors.initials: MP
authors.lastname: Phelan
authors.forename: Jean P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Schils
authors.forename: Daniel
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Burval
authors.forename: Carlos M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Isada
mesh_terms: D000038:Abscess / Q000382:microbiology*; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005534:Foot Diseases / Q000382:microbiology*; D006365:Heel; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D055624:Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D055815:Young Adult