Molecular analysis of mecA and PVL Virulence Factors Genes in Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus Clinical Isolates from Baghdad Hospitals .

Abstract

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) represents a significant public health concern due to its role as a prevalent pathogen responsible for severe and potentially life-threatening infections. Aim: This study aims to assess the prevalence of the mecA and pvl genes among MRSA isolates obtained from multiple hospitals in Baghdad, Iraq. Methods: A total of 110 clinical specimens were collected from patients aged between <1 and 80 years, encompassing various infection types, including burns, bloodstream infections, ear infections, nasal infections, urinary tract infections, and wounds. Identification of S. aureus was performed using biochemical methods and the VITEK 2 system. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique was employed to detect key virulence genes, specifically mecA and pvl. Results: The genotypic investigation results revealed that an overall MRSA prevalence of 74%, with mecA and pvl genes present in 100% of the S. aureus isolates analyzed (20 isolates). These results underscore the significance of mecA in the molecular identification of S. aureus and highlight its role in distinguishing MRSA strains. Notably, the highest resistance rates were observed against benzylpenicillin, erythromycin, oxacillin, and clindamycin. Conclusion: The study concludes that a substantial percentage of S. aureus isolates in the cohort were derived from UI infections, followed by impetigo, wounds, and boils respectively. Furthermore, A higher percentage of MRSA isolates contain the mecA and pvl genes, indicating a concerning trend in resistance patterns within Baghdad hospitals.