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Severe epiglottitis caused by Pasteurella multocida: A case report and the literature review
Tuomas Filppula1, Pihla Pakkanen2, Eero Saari1
1Department of Emergency Medicine and Services, Helsinki University Hospital, Finland.
Abstract:
Pasteurella multocida is a small, facultatively anaerobic coccobacillus commonly found in the upper respiratory tract of many mammals, birds, and especially felines. It can cause a wide range of infections in humans, often resulting from bites or scratches from pet animals. The literature has previously reported 15 cases of epiglottitis caused by Pasteurella multocida. Here we describe a case of severe epiglottitis complicated with neck area cellulitis in a previously healthy middle-aged woman. Blood cultures were positive for Pasteurella multocida, likely originating from a scratch by the patient's pet cat. The infection was treated with antibiotics, and the patient required intubation in the intensive care unit for 6 days. Epiglottitis is a life-threatening disease. In epiglottitis caused by Pasteurella multocida, the pathogen is significantly more likely to be detected in blood cultures compared to its involvement in other types of infections. Pasteurella multocida should be considered a zoonosis.
Insights
Pasteurella multocida, a common bacterium from pets, can cause severe epiglottitis in humans. This zoonotic infection is often detected in blood cultures, highlighting its potential severity.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Pasteurella multocida is a common bacterium residing in animal respiratory tracts.
- Human infections typically arise from animal bites or scratches, particularly from felines.
- Epiglottitis is a serious, potentially life-threatening inflammation of the epiglottis.
Observation:
- A previously healthy woman developed severe epiglottitis with associated neck cellulitis.
- The patient had a recent scratch from her pet cat.
- Blood cultures confirmed Pasteurella multocida as the causative agent.
Findings:
- This case adds to the 15 previously reported instances of Pasteurella multocida-induced epiglottitis.
- The pathogen was readily detected in blood cultures, a common occurrence in Pasteurella multocida epiglottitis.
- The patient required intensive care and mechanical ventilation for 6 days.
Implications:
- Pasteurella multocida should be recognized as a significant zoonotic pathogen capable of causing severe human infections.
- Early recognition and treatment are crucial for managing Pasteurella multocida epiglottitis.
- This case underscores the importance of understanding zoonotic transmission routes for infectious diseases.
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