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Close Canine Contact: A Case of Infantile Pasteurella Meningitis
Rachel T Cahn1, Melissa Winkie2, Collin John3
1Dermatology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, USA.
Abstract:
This case report presents an interesting and rare cause of meningitis in young infants, Pasteurella multocida. Not only is the organism unusual but the well appearance of the infant made this diagnosis surprising. The 2021 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) clinical practice guidelines on well-appearing febrile infants brought a national guideline on the evaluation and management of fever in infants. However, providers should be aware that there is room for shared decision-making and that the guideline will miss a very small percentage of well-appearing infants with invasive bacterial infections.
Insights
A rare bacterial meningitis in infants caused by Pasteurella multocida can occur even in well-appearing infants. This highlights limitations in current fever guidelines for early detection of invasive bacterial infections.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- The 2021 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines offer a framework for evaluating febrile infants.
- Current guidelines focus on fever as a primary indicator for invasive bacterial infections.
Observation:
- This case report details a rare instance of meningitis in an infant caused by Pasteurella multocida.
- The infant presented as well-appearing, making the diagnosis unexpected.
Findings:
- Pasteurella multocida is an uncommon pathogen for infant meningitis.
- The infant's well appearance masked the severity of the invasive bacterial infection.
Implications:
- Clinical practice guidelines may not identify all cases of invasive bacterial infections in well-appearing infants.
- Shared decision-making between providers and families is crucial for managing febrile infants.
- Awareness of rare pathogens like Pasteurella multocida is essential for comprehensive infant care.
