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Septic arthritis due to Pasteurella multocida
1Department of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Abstract:
We have reported two cases of septic arthritis caused by Pasteurella multocida, the first, septic polyarthritis unrelated to animal contact and the other, septic monarthritis after a cat scratch. Serious infections with this gram-negative bacillus must be treated with intravenous penicillin, ampicillin, or a third-generation cephalosporin; aminoglycosides are not effective. A high index of suspicion is appropriate when there is a history of a recent animal-inflicted wound, though infection may also occur with either nontraumatic animal contact or no recognized animal contact at all.
Insights
Pasteurella multocida can cause septic arthritis, even without direct animal contact. Prompt treatment with specific antibiotics like penicillin is crucial for these serious gram-negative bacillus infections.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Pasteurella multocida is a gram-negative bacillus commonly found in animal oral and nasal passages.
- Septic arthritis is a serious joint infection that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Observation:
- Two distinct cases of septic arthritis caused by Pasteurella multocida are presented.
- One case involved septic polyarthritis without a clear history of animal contact.
- The second case was septic monarthritis following a cat scratch.
Findings:
- Pasteurella multocida infections, including septic arthritis, necessitate treatment with intravenous penicillin, ampicillin, or third-generation cephalosporins.
- Aminoglycosides were found to be ineffective against these infections.
- A history of animal contact, particularly wounds, increases suspicion, but infections can occur without recognized contact.
Implications:
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for Pasteurella multocida in septic arthritis cases, even in the absence of typical exposure history.
- Understanding the spectrum of Pasteurella multocida infections and effective treatment options is vital for patient outcomes.
- Further research may elucidate non-contact transmission routes and refine diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for Pasteurella multocida-associated joint infections.