Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2025

Urinary Tract Infection in a Small Animal Model: Transurethral Catheterization of Male and Female Mice
Published on: December 1, 2017
Pasteurella bettyae Infections in Men Who Have Sex with Men, France
Abstract:
Pasteurella bettyae is a gram-negative bacillus sporadically involved in human infections; its main reservoirs are cats and dogs. A recent publication suggests the possibility of sexual transmission leading to genital infections in men who have sex with men. We report 9 cases in France of genital infection among this population.
Insights
Pasteurella bettyae, a bacteria primarily found in pets, may be sexually transmitted. This study reports nine cases of genital infections in men who have sex with men, suggesting a potential new transmission route.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Pasteurella bettyae is a gram-negative bacillus.
- Primary reservoirs include domestic animals like cats and dogs.
- Sporadic human infections are documented, typically associated with animal bites or scratches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential for sexual transmission of Pasteurella bettyae.
- To report cases of genital infections caused by Pasteurella bettyae in a specific population.
- To raise awareness regarding alternative transmission routes for this bacterium.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series analysis.
- Clinical data collection from nine patients presenting with genital infections.
- Microbiological identification of Pasteurella bettyae from clinical samples.
Main Results:
- Nine cases of Pasteurella bettyae genital infection were identified in men who have sex with men in France.
- This finding supports the hypothesis of sexual transmission.
- The clinical presentation and outcomes were documented.
Conclusions:
- Pasteurella bettyae may be transmitted sexually, leading to genital infections.
- This highlights the importance of considering non-traditional transmission routes for Pasteurella bettyae.
- Further research is warranted to understand the epidemiology and clinical significance of sexual transmission.

