Novel Multiplex PCR Assay for Detection of Chlorhexidine-Quaternary Ammonium, Mupirocin, and Methicillin Resistance Genes, with Simultaneous Discrimination of Staphylococcus aureus from Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci

摘要

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a clinically significant pathogen that is resistant to a wide variety of antibiotics and responsible for a large number of nosocomial infections worldwide. Colonization with MRSA increases the risk of adverse health outcomes. Of those colonized, 10 to 30% will subsequently develop MRSA infections (1, 2) while also acting as reservoirs for transmission to other patients (3). Consequently, efforts to prevent the spread of colonization and ultimate infection with MRSA are made through the use of antiseptic agents, commonly chlorhexidine and quaternary ammonium compounds. These antiseptics are used by health care staff as part of hand hygiene, as general disinfectants, and in the decolonization of patients who may be colonized.