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Polymicrobial tenosynovitis with Pasteurella multocida and other gram negative bacilli after a Siberian tiger bite

P A Isotalo1, D Edgar, B Toye

  • 1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Ottawa Hospital, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1H 8L6.

Journal of Clinical Pathology
|December 29, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Large feline bites can cause serious bacterial infections. This case highlights rare bacteria, including Bergeyella zoohelcum, found in a Siberian tiger bite, leading to infectious tenosynovitis.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Mammalian bites pose significant risks for bacterial infections, with Pasteurella multocida being a common pathogen in domestic animal bites.
  • While zoonotic infections from large feline bites are known, documented cases are infrequent.
  • Understanding the microbial landscape of large feline bites is crucial for effective clinical management.

Observation:

  • A 35-year-old man sustained a bite from a Siberian tiger.
  • The patient developed infectious tenosynovitis, a serious inflammation of the tendon sheath.
  • The infection involved a polymicrobial etiology.

Findings:

  • Isolation of Pasteurella multocida, a known bite-associated pathogen.
  • Identification of Bergeyella (Weeksella) zoohelcum in the bite wound.
  • Detection of Gram-negative bacteria, including CDC group EF-4b and Comamonas species, previously unreported in large feline bites.

Implications:

  • This case expands the spectrum of bacteria associated with large feline bites.
  • Highlights the potential for novel or underreported pathogens in exotic animal-related injuries.
  • Emphasizes the need for broad-spectrum antibiotic coverage and vigilant monitoring in managing severe bite wounds from large felines.

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