Uniplex PCR detection of mecA and mecC β-lactam resistance genes in MRSA clinical isolates from Samarra General Hospital | ||||
| Microbes and Infectious Diseases | ||||
| Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 06 August 2025 | ||||
| Document Type: Original Article | ||||
| DOI: 10.21608/mid.2025.393181.2881 | ||||
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| Authors | ||||
Fatin Ayoob Al-Handariz  ; Rafal Khaleel Farhan
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| Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Medicine, Tikrit University, Iraq | ||||
| Abstract | ||||
| Background: Staphylococcus aureus is a common Gram-positive bacterium responsible for various infections. Its resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, largely due to mecA and mecC genes, poses a significant clinical challenge. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of S. aureus in clinical infections, assess its antibiotic resistance profile, and detect mecA and mecC genes using molecular methods. Methods: From June to November 2024, 1300 clinical specimens (wounds, throat, ear, and urine) were collected at Samarra General Hospital. Bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing were performed using standard methods and the VITEK2 Compact system. PCR was used to detect mecA and mecC in confirmed S. aureus isolates. Results: Of 1030 viable samples, 50 isolates were identified as S. aureus, primarily from skin infections. High resistance was noted against penicillin, oxacillin, methicillin, erythromycin, and moxifloxacin, while lower resistance was observed for levofloxacin, tigecycline, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Molecular testing showed 77% of isolates carried mecA, 8% mecC, and 15% both genes. Conclusion: Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) remains prevalent, with mecA as the dominant resistance gene. The presence of mecC, though less frequent, indicates genetic variation and potential for evolving resistance. A limited number of antibiotics remain effective and should be prioritized in treatment based on local susceptibility patterns. | ||||
| Keywords | ||||
| MRSA; mecA; mecC; 16srRNA; resistance genes | ||||
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