Pasteurella multocida as a Rare Cause of Neonatal Meningitis Complicated by Empyema

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Neonatal meningitis poses significant risks.
• Pasteurella multocida is an opportunistic pathogen, often associated with animal bites.
• Skull fractures can serve as a portal for infection in neonates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of neonatal meningitis secondary to Pasteurella multocida infection following a dog bite.
• To describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and management of this rare condition.
• To emphasize the importance of prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary management in neonatal infections.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a neonatal male patient.
• Clinical assessment including physical examination and laboratory tests.
• Diagnostic imaging (e.g., CT scan) to identify skull fracture and fluid collection.
• Intravenous antibiotic therapy and neurosurgical intervention.
• Follow-up evaluation post-discharge.

Main Results:

• The patient developed meningitis caused by Pasteurella multocida after a dog-related injury.
• Initial antibiotic treatment led to temporary improvement, but recurrence of fever indicated complications.
• Imaging revealed a skull fracture and a fluid collection, necessitating surgical evacuation.
• The patient received an extended course of antibiotics and recovered fully.
• Successful management involved a combination of medical and surgical interventions.

Conclusions:

• Pasteurella multocida meningitis in neonates, though rare, requires vigilant diagnosis and management.
• Dog bites can transmit pathogens leading to severe neonatal infections, including meningitis.
• Early recognition of complications like skull fractures and fluid collections is crucial for surgical intervention.
• Multidisciplinary care involving infectious disease specialists and neurosurgeons is vital for optimal outcomes in complex neonatal cases.