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Updated: May 5, 2026
Feeding of Ticks on Animals for Transmission and Xenodiagnosis in Lyme Disease Research
Published on: August 31, 2013
[Beware of cat bites]
Cristina Rosafio1, Jessica Schwaller2, Vincent Ribordy1,3
1Service de médecine interne, HFR Fribourg, Hôpital cantonal, 1708 Fribourg.
Abstract:
An 81-year-old male, anticoagulated for atrial fibrillation, presented with a cat bite on his left hand. Despite initial prophylactic antibiotic treatment, the patient developed a flexor sheath infection of the hand. Surgical debridement was necessary and confirmed Pasteurella multocida infection. He was treated with intravenous amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, followed by oral therapy for two weeks. The patient recovered fully, with normal hand function at 12 months. This case underscores the importance of early intervention in cat bites, as they carry a high risk of infection.
Insights
Cat bites can lead to serious flexor sheath infections, even with antibiotics. Prompt surgical intervention and appropriate antibiotic treatment are crucial for successful outcomes in managing Pasteurella multocida infections.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Hand Surgery
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Cat bites pose a significant risk of infection, particularly Pasteurella multocida.
- Anticoagulated patients may have increased susceptibility to infections.
- Flexor sheath infections of the hand are a serious complication requiring timely management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of flexor sheath infection following a cat bite.
- To highlight the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of Pasteurella multocida infections.
- To emphasize the role of surgical debridement and antibiotic therapy in managing hand infections.
Main Methods:
- Case report of an 81-year-old male patient.
- Initial presentation with a cat bite and subsequent development of infection.
- Diagnosis confirmed by surgical debridement and identification of Pasteurella multocida.
- Treatment with intravenous and oral antibiotics (amoxicillin/clavulanic acid).
Main Results:
- The patient developed a deep flexor sheath infection despite prophylactic antibiotics.
- Surgical debridement was required to manage the infection.
- Pasteurella multocida was identified as the causative agent.
- Complete recovery with normal hand function was achieved after 12 months of follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Cat bite-related hand infections, including flexor sheath infections, necessitate prompt medical attention.
- Early surgical intervention and targeted antibiotic therapy are critical for limb salvage and functional recovery.
- Pasteurella multocida is a common pathogen in cat bite infections and requires appropriate antimicrobial treatment.
