The worldwide problem of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Strains of Staphylococcus aureus resistant to both methicillin and aminoglycosides (e.g. gentamicin) emerged during the late 1970s. They have now become established in hospitals throughout the world, and outbreaks of infection and colonization cause severe clinical and managerial problems. Therapeutic options are limited and clearance of the carrier state may be difficult. Much is known about the genetic and biochemical properties of the organisms but more work is necessary both to develop antibiotics active against these strains and to formulate effective measures for their control.