Survival after cardiac arrest secondary to Capnocytophaga canimorsus meningitis: A case report
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Published on: January 5, 2018
Samuel Smith1, Matthew Eustace2, Douglas Roche3
1Intensive Care Unit, Mater Hospital, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Medical School, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
Background:
Capnocytophaga canimorsus is a fastidious zoonotic pathogen, commonly transmitted from dogs or cats, that may cause fulminant sepsis and meningitis. Diagnosis is frequently delayed due to its slow growth, underscoring the importance of early clinical recognition and empiric therapy.
Case Presentation:
We present a case of Capnocytophaga sepsis with meningitis that resulted in seizure, multi-organ failure and cardiac arrest in a previously immunocompetent individual. With prompt investigation and diagnostics, Capnocytophaga was identified and with supportive therapies, the patient has recovered with minimal sequelae.
Conclusions:
Capnocytophaga is an emerging pathogen in immunocompetent individuals in Australia. Thorough early investigations have the potential to change patient outcomes in this condition.
Insights
Capnocytophaga canimorsus, a dog and cat-transmitted pathogen, can cause severe sepsis and meningitis. Early recognition and prompt treatment are crucial for recovery in immunocompetent individuals.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Capnocytophaga canimorsus is a zoonotic bacterium transmitted by dogs and cats.
- It is a fastidious organism that can cause severe sepsis and meningitis.
- Delayed diagnosis due to slow growth highlights the need for early clinical suspicion.
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