Vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA)

Definition

Vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA) is a strain of Staphylococcus aureus that has developed resistance to the antibiotic vancomycin. This makes it particularly challenging to treat infections caused by this bacterium.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. VRSA is an example of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which poses significant challenges in clinical treatment.
2. The resistance in VRSA is primarily due to the acquisition of the vanA gene cluster from Enterococci.
3. Infections caused by VRSA can lead to severe complications, including bloodstream infections and pneumonia.
4. Standard treatments for Staphylococcus aureus infections are ineffective against VRSA, necessitating alternative therapeutic approaches.
5. The emergence of VRSA highlights the importance of antibiotic stewardship and infection control practices.

Review Questions

• What genetic mechanism allows S. aureus to develop resistance to vancomycin?
• Why are infections caused by VRSA more challenging to treat than those caused by non-resistant strains?
• What are some potential complications associated with VRSA infections?

Related terms

Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA): A strain of Staphylococcus aureus resistant to methicillin and related antibiotics.

Vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus (VISA): A strain of Staphylococcus aureus with intermediate levels of resistance to vancomycin.

Antibiotic stewardship: Efforts to optimize the use of antibiotics to combat microbial resistance and ensure effective treatment.