Rare but Fatal Pasteurella multocida Infective Endocarditis: A Case Report and Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Cardiology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Pasteurella multocida typically causes localized infections following animal scratches or bites.
• Invasive Pasteurella multocida infections, including bacteremia and endocarditis, are uncommon but linked to significant morbidity and mortality.
• Patients with major comorbidities are at higher risk for severe outcomes from invasive Pasteurella infections.

Observation:

• A 47-year-old male presented with altered mental status and subarachnoid hemorrhage after a fall.
• Further investigations revealed Pasteurella multocida bacteremia and infective endocarditis in this patient.
• The patient experienced septic shock and acute congestive heart failure, leading to poor clinical outcomes.

Findings:

• This case details a rare instance of Pasteurella multocida causing infective endocarditis and bacteremia.
• The patient's clinical course was complicated by septic shock and acute congestive heart failure.
• A literature review of definite Pasteurella endocarditis cases is presented.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential for Pasteurella multocida to cause severe invasive infections, even in the absence of typical exposure history.
• Highlights the critical need for prompt diagnosis and management of Pasteurella bacteremia and endocarditis, especially in vulnerable patient populations.
• Contributes to the understanding of rare infective endocarditis etiologies and their management strategies.