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Abstract:
Pasteurella multocida causes hemorrhagic septicemia in many domestic and wild animals. The most common human infection with P multocida is a local cellulitis following animal-inflicted wounds, preponderantly cat bites and scractches. The typical clinical manifestations and complications have been well described previously. We present three cases of pulmonary pasteurellosis that were recently evaluated by the infectious diseases service at Barnes Hospital. In three additional cases, the technologists in the microbiology laboratory isolated P multocida from respiratory tract secretions.
Insights
Pasteurella multocida commonly causes animal disease and local infections in humans from bites. This study highlights rare cases of pulmonary pasteurellosis and respiratory tract infections in people.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Human Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Pasteurella multocida is a significant pathogen in veterinary medicine, causing hemorrhagic septicemia in various animal species.
- Human infections typically manifest as localized cellulitis, often resulting from cat bites or scratches.
Observation:
- This report details three cases of pulmonary pasteurellosis diagnosed at Barnes Hospital.
- Additionally, P. multocida was isolated from respiratory secretions in three other patients.
Findings:
- Pulmonary pasteurellosis represents a less common but significant manifestation of P. multocida infection in humans.
- Respiratory tract isolation indicates potential for pneumonia and other lung infections.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider P. multocida in the differential diagnosis of pneumonia, especially in individuals with animal contact.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of pulmonary pasteurellosis is warranted.