The use of molecular methods for the detection and identification of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major pathogen in many hospitals and long-term care facilities as well as in the community. To limit the spread of MRSA, early detection and proper treatment are essential. Because conventional culture as gold standard is time consuming, new techniques such as PCR-based and hybridization assays have emerged for the rapid detection of MRSA. This review will focus on the currently available molecular-based assays and on their utility and performance for detection of S. aureus, of its virulence factors and of the markers for acquired resistance.
Jari J
JJ
Hirvonen
D015415:Biomarkers / Q000097:blood; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease; D016106:Methicillin Resistance / Q000235:genetics*; D055624:Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus / Q000235:genetics* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000472:pathogenicity; D025202:Molecular Diagnostic Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000235:genetics*; D037521:Virulence Factors / Q000097:blood / Q000235:genetics*
D015415:Biomarkers; D037521:Virulence Factors
MRSA; Staphylococcus aureus; mec genes; multiplex PCR; pathogen-specific PCR; quantitative PCR; virulence factors