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M G Mathai1, C T Ebeo, R P Byrd
1Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Mountain Home, TN, USA.
Abstract:
Pasteurella multocida typically causes cutaneous infections in humans following animal bites or scratches. Primary pulmonary disease, however, can occur in humans after inhalation of airborne particles or by aspiration of colonized or infected nasopharyngeal secretions containing this organism. Symptoms of P. multocida pulmonary infection in humans are variable, ranging from cough with or without hemoptysis to severe prostration. P. multocida infection of the lower respiratory tree has a predilection for elderly patients with underlying lung pathology, especially chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchiectasis. This report reminds the clinician that P. multocida can cause pulmonary infection in patients without underlying lung disease, and stresses the importance of careful history when presented with an indolent infection.
Insights
Pasteurella multocida can cause serious lung infections in humans, even without prior lung conditions. Clinicians should consider this bacteria in patients with persistent, unexplained respiratory symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Pasteurella multocida commonly causes skin infections after animal contact.
- Primary pulmonary infections are less common but can arise from inhaling or aspirating the bacteria.
Observation:
- Human pulmonary infections present with variable symptoms, from mild cough to severe illness.
- Elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or bronchiectasis are particularly susceptible.
Findings:
- This report highlights that Pasteurella multocida can cause pulmonary infections in individuals without pre-existing lung disease.
- Indolent infections warrant careful patient history to identify potential Pasteurella multocida exposure.
Implications:
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for Pasteurella multocida in unexplained respiratory infections.
- Thorough patient history is crucial for diagnosing Pasteurella multocida pulmonary disease, especially in non-traditional cases.