Linezolid for Persistent MRSA Bacteremia?

Linezolid-based regimens were significantly more likely than continued vancomycin-based therapy to clear blood cultures within 72 hours and to prevent S. aureus–related death.

Persistent bacteremia caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a growing clinical problem. To date, no treatment strategy has been established for such infections. Some clinicians continue vancomycin and add either an aminoglycoside or a rifamycin; others switch to linezolid — an oxazolidinone — with or without a carbapenem. In a recent retrospective study performed at a single large medical center in South Korea, researchers examined the effectiveness of linezolid-based therapy.

Thirty-five cases of persistent MRSA bacteremia (i.e., bacteremia persisting for ≥7 days despite ≥5 days of appropriate antibiotic therapy) occurred during the 27-month study period. In 32 patients, the vancomycin MIC was ≤1.0 μg/mL; in 31 pat…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)