The presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria in one’s mucus is known as MRSA in the sputum. Presenting most frequently in cases of MRSA lung infection, or MRSA-based pneumonia, MRSA in the sputum can spread the contagious infection to others if it is not handled properly. Treatment for MRSA-based lung infection often necessitates hospitalization and the administration of aggressive antibiotic therapy.

The presence of MRSA infection is generally confirmed through the administration of several diagnostic tests. Individuals will usually undergo a series of cultures that are performed on their blood and urine to determine the bacterial basis for their infection. Those who present with symptoms indicative of MRSA lung infection will usually undergo a sputum culture, which requires that a sample of mucus be taken and sent for laboratory analysis. Individuals who acquire an active MRSA infection may develop a variety of symptoms that progress rapidly from mild to severe in presentation.

Symptom manifestation is entirely dependent on the location of initial infection. Those who acquire infection through dermal contact may initially present with skin irritation and cutaneous abscess formation. As the infection spreads, individuals may develop flu-like symptoms that include fever, chills and widespread muscle ache. An infection that settles in the lungs inducing the presence of MRSA in the sputum will usually trigger persistent cough, shortness of breath, and mucus drainage. Individuals with suspected MRSA in the sputum should take proactive measures to cover their mouth when coughing and sneezing to prevent the spread of infection to others.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection's rapid progression usually necessitates prompt, appropriate medical treatment to prevent a worsening of symptoms and ensure a good prognosis. An individual who contracts the infection may not immediately present with pneumonic symptoms, but as the infection progresses his or her condition may rapidly deteriorate. Individuals with a MRSA lung infection often require multi-faceted treatment that requires hospitalization.

Due to its high mortality rate, MRSA-based pneumonia requires the implementation of assertive treatment measures to reduce the likelihood of the infection resulting in death. Individuals with MRSA-based pneumonia who present with MRSA in the sputum may be placed in isolation away from other patients so their condition may be stabilized without placing others at risk for infection. Aggressive antibiotic treatment and supplemental oxygen are usually given along with intravenous fluids to stabilize the individual’s condition and ease his or her respiration.

Originating from exposure to the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, MRSA infection is most commonly associated with the overuse of antibiotic medication. Certain individuals who overuse or do not completely finish an antibiotic regimen inadvertently increase their susceptibility to certain bacterium and infections, such as MRSA. Classified as a form of staph infection, MRSA is resistant to most antibiotics and usually transmitted through direct contact with a dermal abrasion, such as a cut or scratch.

The ubiquitous nature of MRSA makes it difficult to avoid exposure. Individuals may be exposed to the bacteria in their community through everyday interactions with others or while in a medical setting, such as a hospital or clinic. It is important to note that not all who come into contact with MRSA will develop an infection. Individuals who have recently had surgery or possess compromised immunity are usually considered to be at an increased risk for developing MRSA infection.