Introduction to MRSA infections:
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection is caused by Staphylococcus aureus, a Gram positive bacteria is cocci form widely present in the environment and a common colonizer of human skin and external organs. More than 20 years ago, a new strain of Staphylococcus aureus emerged in hospitals that was resistant to the broad-spectrum antibiotics commonly used to treat it. A common name for this strain became methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), it was one of the first germs to most known antibiotics with the exception of the most powerful drugs. MRSA infection can be fatal and there have been numerous cases of severe tissue loss and permanent disability due to MRSA infections. Infections can start out as small red bumps or boils and quickly turn into painful abscesses that may require surgical draining. Although most cases stay localized, some infections can become systemic and infect bones, joints, heart valves and lungs.
It is thought that MRSA emerged due to Unnecessary antibiotic use in humans, the presence of Antibiotics in food and water and germ mutation. Risk factors include current or recent hospitalization, residing in long term care facility, invasive devices, kidney dialysis and recent use of antibiotics. It is documented that younger individuals, individuals participating in contact sports, athletes using gymnasium equipment, those living in crowded conditions and health care workers are at higher risk of acquiring MRSA infections.
It is essential to get tested if you think you may be in any of the above high risk groups.
Clongen Laboratories offer testing for environmental samples (water, swabs, equipment, facilities) as well as clinical samples from patients (nasal swabs, swabs from skin or mucosal lesions, blood, or any other body fluid).
We offer testing using the following methods:
1. Special MRSA culture on chromogenic selective agar: Cost $75, turnaround time 2-4 days. A doctor's test request is required, no exceptions if the sample is from a patient. Environmental samples do not require a doctor's order and can be sent by sponsor. Test number MRSA_Culture
2. Polymerase Chain Reaciton (PCR): any sample type can be tested. Cost: $135 per sample, volume discounts are available, please call to inquire. A doctor's test request is required, no exceptions if the sample is from a patient. Environmental samples do not require a doctor's order and can be sent by sponsor. Test number: 133a
3. Panel of PCR and Culture: any sample type. Clinical samples require a doctor's order, others do not and can be shipped by sponsor. Cost $175, turnaround time: 4 days.
To submit a sample, download the sample submission form here..
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