Which group of bacteria does Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) belong to?

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is classified as a Gram-positive cocci due to its characteristic cellular structure and arrangement. Staphylococcus aureus, the species from which MRSA is derived, is characterized by round-shaped bacteria that typically cluster together in a way that resembles a cluster of grapes. This arrangement is common among cocci bacteria.

The "Gram-positive" classification indicates that the bacterial cell wall is thick and retains the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining procedure, causing the bacteria to appear purple under a microscope. This feature differentiates MRSA from Gram-negative bacteria, which have a thinner cell wall and do not retain the crystal violet stain.

Understanding this classification is crucial in the healthcare setting because it affects treatment options and infection control practices. Since MRSA is resistant to methicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics, awareness of its Gram-positive nature informs healthcare providers about the types of antibiotics that may still be effective against it.