Diversity of SCCmec types in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates in southern Brazil.

Resumo

Introduction: Since MRSA are in constant evolution and spread, the SCCmec typing is continually useful to understand the epidemiology and clonal relatedness of these pathogens. Methods: The diversity of SCCmec types and subtypes in 217 healthcare-associated MRSA was determined by multiplex-PCR. Results: Among the MRSA, SCCmec type IV was the most common (57.1%), followed by type III (17.1%), type I (13.4%), type II (9.2%) and type V (1.4%). None strain showed SCCmec types VI, VII and X. Conclusions: This study suggests clearly the major circulation of clones of MRSA in the hospital setting that carry community-associated SCCmec types.

Keywords: Staphylococcus aureus. MRSA. SCCmec types.