Can MRSA of the lungs be treated?
Patient: We have a friend whose son is hospitalized with a variety of illnesses. What landed him in the hospital in the first place was a gran-mal seizure. He has had further seizures & stroke. The latest diagnosis is very severe since it is MERSA of the lungs. We fear for him and his family. Does this young man s family have any hope for him to recover from such severe health problems? Doctor: Hello,Yes, if given proper treatment MRSA can be eradicated. Based on the history your friend seems to be suffering from hospital-acquired MRSA infection which can be life-threatening if not treated.MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a specific bacteria that is often resistant to (is not killed by) several types of antibiotic treatments which can be harder to treat or become worse if the appropriate treatment is delayed.He should be examined by a lung specialist (pulmonologist) to evaluate his condition properly. Since MRSA is resistant to many antibiotics, the treatment will depend on the culture and sensitivity of the blood/sputum. The doctor will choose antibiotics that the laboratory reports as susceptible on the resistance test they perform in each culture. The antibiotics like Vancomycin or Linezolid or fifth generation cephalosporins are found to be effective in susceptible infections. Further, since MRSA is a highly contagious disease every effort should be made to avoid making direct contact with skin, clothing, and any items that come in contact with your friend.Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.Regards,Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali