UMEM Educational Pearls

Category: Pharmacology & Therapeutics

Title: S.aureus in the urine and the risk for bacteremia

Keywords: MSSA, MRSA, bacturia, bacteremia, Staph aureus, Staphlococcus aureus (PubMed Search)

Posted: 6/4/2017 by Jill Logan (Updated: 4/26/2024)
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Question

  • The incidence of Staphylococcus aurea as a urinary pathogen is increasing, however, this finding may represent more than a simple urinary tract infection.
  • One review found an 8-21%rate of association between S. aureus in the urine with bacteremia.
  • Additional work up, including blood cultures, may be warranted in patients with systemic symptoms, lack of access to follow up, and no urinary tract pathology or instrumentation.

Answer

Risk factors associated with S. aureus bacturia include:

  • catheterization and/or invasive urologic procedures
  • Urinary obstruction
  • Malignancy
  • Long term care facility residence
  • Recent antibiotics

References

Al Mohajer M, Darouiche RO. Staphylococcus aureus bacteriura: source, clinical relevance, and management. Curr Infect Dis Rep. 2012;14:601-6.