Pasteurella canis/oralis: A Tale of the Immunocompromised

Bacteria from the Pasteurella genus are small Gram-negative coccobacilli. They are commonly found in the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and upper respiratory tract of domestic pets. When humans experience trauma such as scratches, bites, or direct wound licking from an animal, this could result in skin or soft tissue infections. The purpose of this case report is to highlight that immunocompromised individuals are at greater risk of overwhelming sepsis and infections with the Pasteurella species. Moreover, it reemphasizes the importance of comprehensive questioning regarding exposures to any wild or domesticated animals as infectious sources in the setting of overwhelming sepsis in the immunocompromised.