Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a frequent source of infections affecting premature and critically ill infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Neonates are particularly vulnerable to colonization and infection with MRSA, and many studies have attempted to identify risk factors that predispose certain infants to its acquisition to discover potential areas for clinical intervention. In addition, epidemiologic assessment of transmission patterns and molecular analysis of changes in the characteristics of MRSA strains over time have helped clarify additional factors affecting MRSA infections in the NICU. Numerous strategies for prevention and eradication have been used with variable rates of success. Despite these interventions, MRSA remains a significant source of morbidity in the NICU population. Semin Perinatol 36:424-430 (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.