Evaluation of a rapid assay for detection of PBP2a Staphylococcus aureus

Background. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant pathogen causing both health-care-associated and community-acquired infection. Rapid and accurate detection of this pathogen is crucial for the use of appropriate antimicrobial therapy and the control of nosocomial spread. Methods. A total of 107 S. aureus strains were assayed for methicillin resistance: Vitek2 (R) (bioMerieux), CHROMagarTM MRSA II (BD Becton Dickinson), disk diffusion in agar for cefoxitin 30 mu g and immunochromatography PBP2a SA Culture Colony Test (Alere (TM)). The results of conventional tests were compared with the "gold standard" PCR test for mecA gene. Results. Sensitivity and specificity were: disk diffusion for cefoxitin 100% and 100% respectively, Vitek2 (R) 100 and 100%, CHROMagarTM MRSA II 100 and 96%, and ICPBP2a detection 98,25% and 100%. Conclusion. ICPBP2a Culture Colony Test (Alere (TM)) is fast, efficient and economical technique for detection of penicillin binding protein 2a (PBP2a) from isolates. This assay is a useful tool for the management of hospital outbreaks.