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Pasteurella aerogenes hamster bite peritonitis
Alexandra F Freeman1, Xiaotian T Zheng, Jerome C Lane
1Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University, The Feinberg School of Medicine, The Children's Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA.
Abstract:
Pasteurella multocida has been reported to cause peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis after a cat bite or scratch to the catheter. We report a teenager with hamster bite peritonitis caused by P. aerogenes, an organism predominantly isolated from swine.
Insights
A rare hamster bite led to peritonitis in a teenager. This infection was caused by Pasteurella aerogenes, a bacterium typically found in swine.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis is a known complication.
- Pasteurella multocida from cat bites/scratches is a documented cause.
Observation:
- A teenager developed peritonitis following a hamster bite.
- The causative agent was identified as Pasteurella aerogenes.
Findings:
- Pasteurella aerogenes, typically associated with swine, caused peritonitis in this case.
- This represents a novel transmission route from hamsters to humans causing peritonitis.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for zoonotic transmission of Pasteurella species from exotic pets.
- Broadens the spectrum of known causes for peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering animal contact in peritonitis etiology.
