Nasal colonization with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: clinical implications and treatment.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has become an increasingly important pathogen during the past 30 years, and infections due to MRSA are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Despite intensive infection control measures, the prevalence of MRSA has increased significantly, and the organism has become endemic in many hospitals worldwide. Asymptomatic nasal carriage of MRSA has been identified as a major risk factor for subsequent S. aureus infection in multiple settings and populations. As a result, considerable interest exists in developing decolonization strategies, with the ultimate goal of reducing the incidence of MRSA infection. Approaches to decolonization have included the use of systemic and inhalation anti-biotics, antiseptic washes, and topical antimicrobials.