Post-Operative Wound Infection by Multiple Zoonotic Organisms

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Immunocompromised Host

Background:

• Rhodococcus hoagii (formerly Rhodococcus equi) and Pasteurella multocida are zoonotic bacteria.
• R. hoagii is transmitted via inhalation of aerosols, while P. multocida is often associated with animal bites.
• Both can cause severe systemic illness, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical course of a patient with co-infections of R. hoagii and P. multocida.
• To highlight the diagnostic and management complexities of these rare zoonotic infections.
• To emphasize the importance of considering zoonotic pathogens in immunocompromised patients with unusual presentations.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 42-year-old female patient.
• Detailed review of the patient's medical history, including Crohn's disease and immunosuppressive therapy.
• Documentation of the clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and treatment of the identified infections.

Main Results:

• The patient developed simultaneous infections with R. hoagii and P. multocida post-operatively.
• The patient had a history of exotic animal exposure and was on immunosuppressive therapy for Crohn's disease.
• Successful medical management of the complex, multi-microbial infections was achieved.

Conclusions:

• This case underscores the potential for severe, systemic zoonotic infections in immunocompromised patients.
• Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
• Healthcare providers should maintain a high index of suspicion for zoonotic pathogens in at-risk populations.