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"My Dog Deafened Me!": Case Report of Capnocytophaga canimorsus Infection and Literature Review
Barbara Cadre1, Mouna Al Oraimi1, Julia Grinholtz-Haddad1
1Versailles Hospital Center, Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Le Chesnay, France.
Abstract:
Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection is an emerging zoonotic disease that could cause meningitis and subsequent sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), especially in the immunocompromised population. It is a gram-negative rod that belongs to the normal oral flora of dogs and cats and may be transmitted to humans by biting or licking. Our case report and literature review showed that this postmeningitic SNHL has distinct features from common bacterial meningitis-related SNHL. We therefore discuss the diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive aspects of this uncommon cause of SNHL. Because it is now the second-most common dog-bite transmitted pathogen, otolaryngologists are more likely to encounter this zoonotic disease and should be aware of its characteristics. Laryngoscope, 129:41-43, 2019.
Insights
Capnocytophaga canimorsus, a zoonotic bacteria from dog/cat oral flora, can cause meningitis and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). This hearing loss presents uniquely compared to other bacterial meningitis cases.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Capnocytophaga canimorsus is an emerging zoonotic pathogen, commonly found in the oral flora of domestic animals like dogs and cats.
- Transmission to humans occurs via bites or scratches, posing a risk particularly to immunocompromised individuals.
Observation:
- This case report and literature review focus on Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection leading to meningitis and subsequent sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL).
- The study highlights distinct clinical and audiological features of SNHL resulting from Capnocytophaga canimorsus meningitis compared to SNHL from more common bacterial meningitis.
Findings:
- Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection can result in meningitis with a characteristic pattern of sensorineural hearing loss.
- The identified SNHL in these cases differs significantly from hearing loss associated with typical bacterial meningitis.
Implications:
- Otolaryngologists must be aware of Capnocytophaga canimorsus as a potential cause of SNHL, especially given its increasing prevalence as a dog-bite transmitted pathogen.
- Understanding the unique diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive aspects of this zoonotic infection is crucial for managing affected patients and preventing further cases.
