Infective Exacerbation of Pasteurella multocida.

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are susceptible to respiratory infections.
• Acute respiratory failure can be triggered by various pathogens, including commensal bacteria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of Pasteurella multocida pneumonia secondary to a dog bite in a patient with COPD.
• To emphasize the importance of considering animal contact and injuries in the differential diagnosis of acute respiratory illness.

Main Methods:

• Case report of an 89-year-old female presenting with acute respiratory failure.
• Clinical examination, chest X-ray, and blood cultures were performed.
• Patient history regarding animal contact and injuries was obtained.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with severe type one respiratory failure and elevated inflammatory markers, despite a clear chest X-ray.
• Blood cultures identified Pasteurella multocida.
• A history of a dog bite on the hand the day prior to admission was revealed.

Conclusions:

• Pasteurella multocida, a common oral commensal in domestic animals, can cause severe pneumonia.
• Infective exacerbations of COPD should prompt inquiry into potential zoonotic sources, such as animal bites or injuries.
• Early recognition and appropriate antibiotic therapy (penicillin in this case) are crucial for favorable outcomes.