MARCoNS, or Multiple Antibiotic Resistant Coagulase Negative Staphylococci, is a bacteria that establishes a persistent presence deep within the nasal passages. MARCoNS is notable because of its strong resistance to common medications, making it difficult to eradicate, particularly in individuals whose immune systems are already compromised. Understanding this nasal colonization is important because of its potential link to chronic, body-wide inflammatory conditions. This information explains the nature of this bacteria, the systemic problems it can cause, and the specialized approach required for its identification and treatment.
Understanding the Bacteria
The “Coagulase Negative Staphylococci” part refers to a broad group of Staphylococcus bacteria that do not produce the enzyme coagulase, which distinguishes them from more aggressive strains like Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). These coagulase-negative strains are generally considered part of the normal flora found on human skin and mucous membranes. Their presence in the deep nasal cavity becomes problematic when they acquire resistance to multiple drugs.
The “Multiple Antibiotic Resistant” designation means the bacteria is impervious to two or more classes of antibiotics. This resistance is a primary reason why standard antibiotic courses are ineffective against a MARCoNS colonization. Furthermore, this type of staph bacteria has the ability to form a thick, protective layer known as a biofilm, which shields the entire bacterial community. The biofilm acts as a physical barrier, preventing both immune cells and topical antimicrobial agents from reaching and destroying the organisms.
How MARCoNS Affects the Body
The colonization of MARCoNS becomes a systemic health issue because of its relationship with chronic inflammation. The bacteria thrive in individuals experiencing Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), an illness often triggered by exposure to biotoxins like mold. Biotoxin exposure can lower a regulatory neuro-hormone called Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (MSH), which normally helps protect the nasal mucous membranes from bacterial colonization. Low MSH levels create an environment where MARCoNS can establish itself deep in the nasal passages.
Once established, the bacteria contributes to the cycle of inflammation by producing and releasing chemicals known as exotoxins into the bloodstream. These exotoxins, specifically A and B, further interfere with the body’s regulatory systems. MARCoNS actively cleaves and inactivates MSH, causing a feedback loop that sustains the inflammatory state.
The resulting systemic inflammation can exacerbate a wide range of symptoms commonly associated with CIRS, such as persistent fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and hormonal imbalances. The chronic presence of this antibiotic-resistant colony and its toxic byproducts leads to a persistent activation of the immune system. This long-term immunological stress can significantly impair a person’s overall health.
Confirming a MARCoNS Infection
Identification of MARCoNS requires a specialized diagnostic approach, as the bacteria often resides too deeply to be found by routine nasal cultures performed in a standard clinical setting. The process involves a deep nasopharyngeal swab, which must be collected correctly to ensure the sample reaches the colonization site. This sample is then sent to a specialized laboratory.
The laboratory must confirm the antibiotic-resistant nature of the staph. This is done through an Antibiogram, which tests the isolated bacteria against a panel of various antibiotics to determine which drugs are effective. Identifying the specific resistance pattern is necessary for guiding targeted topical treatment. The specialized lab culture also includes an assessment of the organism’s ability to produce biofilm, which is a key factor in the difficulty of eradication.
Eradicating the Nasal Colonization
Treating MARCoNS requires a targeted strategy because traditional oral antibiotics are often ineffective due to the bacteria’s resistance and the protection afforded by the biofilm. The therapeutic protocol focuses on a localized, two-part approach that directly addresses the colonization in the nasal passages. The first step involves disrupting the protective biofilm matrix.
This biofilm disruption is typically achieved using a chelating agent, such as Edetate Disodium (EDTA), compounded into a nasal spray or wash. Once the biofilm is compromised, the second step involves delivering targeted topical antimicrobial agents directly to the site of colonization. These agents are often compounded nasal sprays containing a combination of antibiotics, such as those found in the common BEG spray (Bactroban, EDTA, Gentamicin). The specific components of the compounded spray are chosen based on the results of the Antibiogram, ensuring the treatment is effective against the identified resistant strains. The underlying inflammatory cause, such as environmental mold exposure, must be eliminated or treated concurrently for the MARCoNS colonization to be fully and permanently eradicated.