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[A case of chronic bronchitis with Pasteurella multocida possibly resulting from infection from a bird]
Abstract:
A 60-year-old woman was admitted to our division for further evaluation of fever and purulent sputa. In sputum cultures performed when the patient had complained of an increase in symptoms on three occasions during the previous 6 months, Pasteurella multicoida was usually detected. Based on the fact that the bacteria had been detected from the patient's sputa after feeding a macaw, but was not detected after treatment of the bird with OFLX, a diagnosis of respiratory tract infection by P. multocida was made. Clinical symptoms and laboratory data of the patient were markedly improved after treatment with cefaclor (750 mg/d). The bacteria in this case were sensitive toward many antibiotics. This case was considered to be the first case of bird-mediated Pasteurella infection.
Insights
This study reports the first case of bird-mediated Pasteurella multocida infection in a human. The patient recovered after antibiotic treatment, highlighting a novel transmission route for this bacterium.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Zoonotic Infections
Background:
- Pasteurella multocida is a Gram-negative bacterium commonly found in the respiratory and oral tracts of animals.
- While typically associated with animal bites or scratches, zoonotic transmission to humans can occur.
- Respiratory tract infections are a less common manifestation of Pasteurella multocida in humans.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old woman presented with recurrent fever and purulent sputum.
- Sputum cultures repeatedly identified Pasteurella multocida, particularly after contact with her pet macaw.
- The bacteria were no longer detected after the bird was treated with ofloxacin (OFLX).
Findings:
- A diagnosis of respiratory tract infection caused by Pasteurella multocida was established.
- The patient showed significant clinical improvement after treatment with cefaclor (750 mg/day).
- The isolated P. multocida strain demonstrated sensitivity to multiple antibiotics.
Implications:
- This case represents the first documented instance of bird-mediated Pasteurella multocida infection in a human.
- It underscores the potential for avian species to act as reservoirs for human pathogens.
- Highlights the importance of considering animal contact in the diagnosis of recurrent respiratory infections.