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Knee Arthrocentesis in Adults
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Septic arthritis caused by Pasteurella multocida

H Mitchell, R Travers, D Barraclough

    The Medical Journal of Australia
    |February 6, 1982
    PubMed

    Insights

    A rheumatoid arthritis patient developed septic arthritis in her knee after a Pasteurella multocida hand infection from her cat. Prompt treatment with antibiotics and drainage resolved the infection.

    Area of Science:

    • Infectious Diseases
    • Rheumatology
    • Microbiology

    Background:

    • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease primarily affecting joints.
    • Patients with autoimmune conditions may have altered susceptibility to infections.
    • Feline oral flora harbors various bacteria, including potential human pathogens.

    Observation:

    • A patient with rheumatoid arthritis experienced a hand infection after administering medication to her cat.
    • The hand infection subsequently led to septic arthritis in the ipsilateral knee.
    • Pasteurella multocida, a common bacterium in cat saliva, was identified as the causative agent.

    Findings:

    • Pasteurella multocida, part of normal feline oral flora, can cause opportunistic human infections.
    • Septic arthritis is a serious joint infection that can arise from bloodstream seeding or direct inoculation.
    • The patient's infection was successfully treated with penicillin and surgical drainage.

    Implications:

    • Highlights the zoonotic potential of Pasteurella multocida, particularly from companion animals.
    • Emphasizes the importance of wound care and infection prevention in immunocompromised individuals.
    • Underscores the need for prompt diagnosis and management of septic arthritis to prevent joint damage.

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