Introduction: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is considered a nosocomial pathogen. We have noticed, however, an increasing number of MRSA infections in patients treated for community-acquired finger abscess. The purpose of this study is to determine the frequency and possible risk factors associated with MRSA in community-acquired finger abscess in our southeast Texas population.

Methods: The medical records of patients treated for finger abscess by our Division of Plastic Surgery over 24 months (January 2001 - December 2002) were reviewed. Patient age, organisms from culture, and possible risk factors for infection were recorded.

Results: Patients’ ages were 7 to 79 years, with an average of 36 years. 11 of 18 patients (61%), had culture positive MRSA. Only 2 of 11 patients (18%) with positive MRSA cultures had identified risk factors (one with hospital admission in the previous 12 months, and one with an intravenous drug use history).

Conclusions: MRSA infection in community-acquired finger abscess was identified in 61% of our patients. The majority of these patients had no identified risk factors, suggesting that MRSA is more prevalent in the community than once believed. Further studies of MRSA transmission in the community will help define other sources of this infection.