Related Experiment Videos
A case of unexpected pasteurella multocida bacteremia.
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Louisiana State University, New Orleans.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|July 1, 1990
Summary
A previously healthy individual developed Pasteurella multocida bacteremia after a dog scratch. This case highlights the importance of considering Pasteurella multocida in febrile patients with animal exposure, even without local infection signs.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Pasteurella multocida is a common bacterium found in animals.
- Bacteremia, or septicemia, occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream.
- While often associated with immunocompromised individuals, it can affect healthy people.
Observation:
- A hospital employee presented with acute febrile illness after a dog scratch.
- Initial presentation mimicked a viral syndrome, with no localized signs of infection.
- Gram-negative rods were detected in blood cultures the following day.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with Pasteurella multocida bacteremia.
- This occurred despite the absence of localized infection at the scratch site.
- The patient was previously healthy, challenging typical risk factor assumptions.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider Pasteurella multocida in febrile illnesses with animal (dog or cat) exposure.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial, even in seemingly healthy individuals.
- This case underscores the zoonotic potential of Pasteurella multocida infections.