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Beware of the dog: meningitis in a splenectomised woman
M J Krol-van Straaten1, J E Landheer, C E de Maat
1Department of Internal Medicine, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein.
Abstract:
Purulent meningitis was diagnosed in a 75-yr-old splenectomised woman nine days after a dog bite. The original wound was apparently uninflamed. The causative microorganism proved to be a dysgonic fermenter 2 (DF-2) bacterium (renamed Capnocythophaga canimorsus). This is a recently recognised Gram-negative bacterium, belonging to the normal canine mouth flora, to which asplenic individuals seem to be particularly susceptible.
Insights
A dog bite led to purulent meningitis in a splenectomized woman due to Capnocythophaga canimorsus. Asplenic individuals are highly susceptible to this canine oral bacterium.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Splenectomized individuals are at increased risk for certain infections.
- Canine oral flora harbors potential human pathogens.
- Early recognition of rare bacterial infections is crucial.
Observation:
- A 75-year-old asplenic woman developed purulent meningitis.
- The meningitis onset occurred nine days post-dog bite.
- The initial bite wound showed no signs of inflammation.
Findings:
- The causative agent was identified as a dysgonic fermenter 2 (DF-2) bacterium.
- DF-2 was subsequently renamed Capnocythophaga canimorsus.
- Capnocythophaga canimorsus is a Gram-negative bacterium found in dog mouths.
Implications:
- Asplenic patients require heightened awareness of Capnocythophaga canimorsus infection risks.
- Dog bites can transmit serious infections beyond typical pathogens.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital for asplenic individuals exposed to potential canine-related pathogens.