[Bacteremia due to Pasteurella spp.: a rare process in our hospital over the last 8 years]

Miguel Félix1, Paloma Tallón, Miguel Salavert

  • 1Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas. Hospital Universitario La Fe. Valencia. España.

Abstract

Insights

Pasteurella species bacteremia (PSB) primarily affects older adults with underlying health conditions and often involves contact with pets. Penicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics are effective treatments for PSB.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology
  • Epidemiology

Context:

  • Pasteurella species bacteremia (PSB) is a rare but serious infection.
  • Understanding the epidemiology and clinical presentation of PSB is crucial for effective management.

Purpose:

  • To review and update knowledge on the epidemic and clinical aspects of Pasteurella species-induced disseminated blood disease.
  • To analyze PSB cases in a tertiary hospital setting.

Summary:

  • A retrospective study identified 5 cases of PSB over 8 years, predominantly caused by Pasteurella multocida.
  • Patients were adults over 50 with comorbidities, often with pet contact but no significant trauma.
  • Clinical presentation was non-specific, with no severe complications; all patients recovered with antimicrobial treatment, primarily beta-lactams.

Impact:

  • Highlights the importance of pet hygiene and preventive measures in individuals with pets.
  • Confirms the efficacy of penicillins and beta-lactams as primary treatment for PSB.
  • Provides valuable data for clinicians managing Pasteurella infections.

Related Concept Videos

Pneumonia I: Introduction01:29

Pneumonia I: Introduction

Pneumonia is an infection of the lower respiratory tract that leads to inflammation of the lung parenchyma, often resulting in the accumulation of inflammatory exudate in the alveoli and airways. Unlike the watery, low-protein fluid exudate in pulmonary edema, the exudate in this case is a thick fluid rich in immune cells, proteins, and debris produced during infection and inflammation.This impairs gas exchange and can lead to consolidation of lung tissue. The infection may be caused by a...
Pneumonia I: Introduction01:30

Pneumonia I: Introduction

Pneumonia is an acute respiratory infection that targets the lungs, specifically the alveoli. These tiny air sacs, essential for oxygen exchange, become engorged with pus and fluid, severely hindering breathing, decreasing oxygen absorption, and causing significant pain and discomfort during respiration.
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Atypical Pneumonia01:14

Atypical Pneumonia

Atypical pneumonia, often caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, is a form of pulmonary infection that differs from the classical presentation of bacterial pneumonia in both its cause and clinical symptoms. Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a pleomorphic bacterium notable for its lack of a rigid cell wall. This structural characteristic imparts resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics and significantly influences the bacterium’s behavior within the human host.Other pathogens responsible for the disease include...
Bacterial Meningitis01:24

Bacterial Meningitis

Bacterial meningitis is a severe infectious disease involving inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It occurs when pathogenic bacteria cross the blood–brain barrier and enter the cerebrospinal fluid. Common causative organisms include Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae type b, Listeria monocytogenes, and Escherichia coli K1. The exact route of entry varies by pathogen and host condition.Routes of Entry...
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction01:22

Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction

Bacterial meningitis is a severe, life-threatening inflammation of the meninges, particularly the pia mater and arachnoid mater, affecting the subarachnoid space, ventricles, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). If untreated, it can lead to significant neurological complications or death.Causative AgentsCommon pathogens vary with age and immune status. In adults, major organisms include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae. Streptococcus agalactiae (group B...
Brain Abscess l: Introduction01:26

Brain Abscess l: Introduction

A brain abscess is a focal, intracerebral infection characterized by a localized collection of pus within the brain parenchyma, resulting from microbial invasion and the body’s inflammatory response. It progresses through stages: early and late cerebritis, followed by early and late capsule formation, reflecting tissue destruction, immune response, and eventual encapsulation.Etiology and PathogenesisCausative organisms vary with source and host factors, often involving polymicrobial infections,...