Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Lip Abscess as a Complication of Facial Laceration

Staphylococcus aureus is a gram-positive round-shaped bacteria found in the environment and skin of humans and animals and commonly causes skin and soft tissue infections. Infections caused by drug resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus , such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) , are more difficult to treat due to a more limited pool of antibiotics available for use. We present a case of a 41-year-old man who presented to the emergency room with lower lip swelling after suffering a facial laceration from shaving. Physical exam indicated a desquamated, erythematous, and edematous lower lip lesion that was tender upon palpation. A computerized tomography of the lower lip showed diffuse swelling and fluid in the lower lip. Analysis of the purulent discharge from the wound grew MRSA and antibiotics were given to cover against this strain. The lower lip swelling decreased in size and the patient was discharged on oral antibiotics. This case demonstrates the importance of rapid identification of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacterial skin infections and an uncommon location of cellulitis.