Pasteurella multocida lung and liver abscess in an immune-competent child

P Goussard1, R P Gie, F Steyn

  • 1Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa. pgouss@sun.ac.za

Pediatric Pulmonology
|January 24, 2006
PubMed

Insights

A 20-month-old infant developed severe lung and liver abscesses due to Pasteurella multocida infection following close contact with a pet cat. Surgical intervention revealed interconnected abscesses involving the diaphragm.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Zoonotic Infections
  • Surgical Pathology

Background:

  • Pasteurella multocida is a common bacterium found in domestic animals, particularly cats.
  • Infections in humans are typically associated with animal bites or scratches, but non-bite exposures can also occur.
  • While often causing localized infections, Pasteurella multocida can lead to severe systemic disease in rare cases.

Observation:

  • A 20-month-old infant presented with a complicated illness.
  • The infant had recent close contact with a domestic cat.
  • Clinical presentation suggested a serious infection affecting multiple organs.

Findings:

  • Diagnostic imaging and surgical exploration confirmed the presence of interconnected lung and liver abscesses.
  • The abscesses were caused by Pasteurella multocida.
  • The infection had extended to involve the diaphragm.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the potential for severe Pasteurella multocida infections in young children, even without direct bites.
  • Early recognition and surgical management are crucial for treating complex abscesses.
  • Zoonotic disease prevention strategies should consider non-bite transmission routes from pets.

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