Successful Treatment of Refractory Methicillin-Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus Osteomyelitis With Ceftaroline Fosamil in a Diabetic Patient

Osteomyelitis is a challenging complication in patients with diabetes mellitus, often necessitating prolonged antimicrobial therapy and surgical intervention. We present the case of a 70-year-old man with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes who developed recurrent diabetic foot osteomyelitis and vertebral osteomyelitis caused by methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). Despite receiving multiple courses of IV antibiotics and undergoing surgical debridement, the patient experienced persistent bacteremia without clinical improvement. Ceftaroline fosamil, a fifth-generation cephalosporin with activity against both MSSA and methicillin-resistant S. aureus, was initiated. Following treatment, the patient achieved bacteriologic clearance and marked clinical improvement. This case underscores the potential role of ceftaroline in managing complex, refractory osteomyelitis, particularly when conventional therapies fail or are limited by resistance, adverse effects, or availability.