Treatment options for skin and soft tissue infections caused by meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: oral vs. parenteral; home vs. hospital

Although meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is recognized as a significant cause of nosocomial infections, it is also becoming an increasingly common cause of infections in the community. Overall, the most common infections caused by MRSA are those involving the skin and skin structures. These infections are difficult to treat and are associated with high morbidity and substantial cost. This article summarizes the current oral and parenteral therapeutic options, of which there are several, and the optimal site of care for the management of these infections. Defining the severity of the illness is central to improving the decision-making process about the route of administration and site of care.