Sepsis by Pasteurella multocida in an Elderly Immunocompetent Patient after a Cat Bite

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Bacteriology
• Neurology

Background:

• Pasteurella multocida is a common bacterium found in animal saliva, typically causing localized infections after bites or scratches.
• While often associated with opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals, severe systemic disease is less common.
• Cat bites can be underestimated, especially in elderly patients, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Observation:

• A 92-year-old woman presented with coma and fever one week after a cat bite.
• Physical examination revealed localized inflammation at the right perimalleolar area with elevated inflammatory markers.
• Cerebral CT angiography showed complete occlusion of the right intracranial vertebral artery.

Findings:

• Blood cultures consistently identified Pasteurella multocida, leading to a diagnosis of sepsis.
• The patient recovered following targeted antimicrobial therapy.
• Culturing the patient's cat's saliva confirmed Pasteurella multocida with similar antibiotic sensitivity, establishing zoonotic transmission.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential for severe Pasteurella multocida infections, including sepsis and neurological complications, following seemingly minor animal bites.
• It highlights the importance of considering zoonotic transmission of pathogens in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients.
• Prompt recognition and appropriate antibiotic management are crucial for favorable outcomes in Pasteurella multocida sepsis.