Management of Wrestling Team with Similar Cutaneous MRSA Infections: A Case Series

Wrestlers often present with cutaneous infections that are acquired through their sport. This case series outlines the dermatological management of several wrestlers from the same team who presented with infections similarly.

In the Winter months of 2023, 4 wrestlers from the same northwest Ohio high school team were referred to the dermatologist by their coach because of infection. Through culture and sensitivity testing, it was determined that their infections were all from the same strain of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and all were treated with the same oral antibiotics successfully. The dermatologist soon after made an announcement to the state’s dermatological association and the high school athletic association, describing the infections so that others could monitor for additional cases in the community.

Dermatologists should perform culture and sensitivity testing on wrestlers who present with suspected infections and notify local agencies in the event of outbreaks. Additionally, they should teach proper hygiene and mat-cleaning techniques to wrestlers and coaches.