Spectrum of bacterial isolates in HIV-positive patients with skin and soft tissue infections: emergence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococci

We assessed the spectrum of bacteria in skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) between HIV-negative and HIV-positive patients, and compared the emergence of resistance at a university dermatology department during 1995-2000. Of 10 456 isolates, Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative Staphylococci, Streptococcus spp., Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were the most significant species. Methicillin-resistance in S. aureus isolates significantly increased over the years. The knowledge of the evolving spectrum of bacteria and their resistance pattern is imperative to treat SSTI adequately.