- Case-Based Modules
- Initial Evaluation
- Dermatologic Manifestations
- Oral Manifestations
- OIs: Prophylaxis
- OIs: Treatment
- Antiretroviral Rx
- Antiretroviral Rx: Resistance
- Antiretroviral Rx: Adverse Effects
- Drug-Drug Interactions
- Postexposure Prophylaxis
- Perinatal Transmission
- Special Populations
- Prevention for Positives
- Challenging Unknowns
- Resource-Limited Settings
- Interactive Tutorials
- Routine HIV Screening
- Oraquick Advance Rapid HIV Test
- HIV Integration
- This program is funded through Health Resources and Services Administration, US Department of Health and Human Services.
Dermatologic Manifestations
Question | Discussion | References | CME Credit
Case 6: Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
You answered:
 |
Resistance to methicillin and cephalexin results from production of an altered penicillin-binding protein by S. aureus that has reduced affinity for binding to beta-lactam antibiotics. |
|---|
This answer is correct. The resistance to methicillin and cephalexin results from the production of an altered penicillin-binding protein (penicillin binding protein 2a) that has reduced affinity for binding to beta-lactam antibiotics. The mecA gene has been identified as the gene responsible for the formation of the altered penicillin-binding protein; the mecA gene is part of a mobile genetic element known as the staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) that is inserted into the staphylococcal chromosome. The production of beta-lactamase causes resistance to penicillin, but it does not result in methicillin resistance.
Copyright © 2004-2013 University of Washington