Vulvovaginitis due to methicillin-resistant and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus among women in reproductive age-group

Abstract

Abstract Background: Although Staphylococcus aureus is commensal in 20% of individuals, its pathogenic consequences have not been unidentified. Colonisation of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in the vagina is associated with recurrent vaginal infections, skin and soft tissue infections surrounding the genital and buttock area and infertility. Methods: This study aimed at identifying S. aureus in vaginitis and the antibiotic susceptibility of S. aureus. Results: Of 463 patients’ vaginal swabs, 53 had significant growth, yielding 60 aerobic bacterial isolates. Seven (15%) isolates were S. aureus, 78% were MRSA and 100% were resistant to penicillin. All were sensitive to doxycycline and linezolid. Because the vaginal cavity is a reservoir for S. aureus, genital infections are considered, especially if they are recurring. Conclusions: Among patiens with vaginitis, MRSA is a common aetiological cause and should be tested for.