What is the primary treatment approach for MRSA Skin Infections?

The primary treatment approach for MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) skin infections is incision and drainage. This method is crucial because MRSA often presents with abscesses or collections of pus that need to be physically removed to eliminate the infection effectively. Simply relying on antibiotics without addressing the source of the pus may not resolve the infection, as the bacteria can continue to proliferate if the abscess is left untreated.

While antibiotics can play a role in the broader management of MRSA infections, particularly in more severe or systemic cases, the immediate and most effective initial intervention for localized skin infections is to surgically drain the abscess. This procedure helps relieve pressure, promotes healing, and improves the overall effectiveness of any antibiotic treatment that may follow.

Topical antiseptics and oral antibiotics like cephalexin are generally not effective against MRSA due to its resistance profile. Although intravenous penicillin is effective against many strains of Staphylococcus aureus, it does not work against MRSA, which has developed resistance to this class of antibiotics. Therefore, incision and drainage remain the cornerstone of treatment for MRSA skin infections.