Related Experiment Videos
Pasteurella multocida empyema: case report and review of the literature
Abstract:
A case report and review of 13 cases of Pasteurella multocida empyema in the English literature demonstrate the apparent increased pathogenicity of this organism in patients with chronic lung disease. The infections were marked by their indolence, minimal febrility, blood-tinged pleural fluid, and predilection for the elderly. The was no characteristic roentgenographic pattern. Animal exposure commonly preceded the illnesses. It is postulated that the disease occurs in patients with impaired pulmonary defenses who acquire the organism via the inhalation of infectious droplets aerosolized from the oropharynx of animals where P multocida is part of the normal flora. Although most isolates were penicillin sensitive, there was significant mortality.
Insights
Pasteurella multocida empyema is more severe in patients with chronic lung disease, often affecting the elderly. Animal exposure is a common precursor to these indolent infections, despite penicillin sensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Microbiology
Background:
- Pasteurella multocida is a bacterium commonly found in animal oropharynx.
- Empyema is a serious infection of the pleural space.
Observation:
- A review of 13 cases of Pasteurella multocida empyema was conducted.
- Infections predominantly affected elderly individuals with chronic lung disease.
- Clinical presentation included indolent onset, minimal fever, and blood-tinged pleural fluid.
- No characteristic radiographic patterns were identified.
Findings:
- Pasteurella multocida demonstrated increased pathogenicity in patients with compromised pulmonary defenses.
- Animal exposure was a frequent preceding factor, suggesting transmission via aerosolized droplets.
- Despite most isolates being penicillin-sensitive, significant mortality was observed.
Implications:
- Highlights the risk of Pasteurella multocida infections in individuals with chronic lung conditions and animal contact.
- Suggests a need for increased awareness and potentially tailored treatment strategies for this specific empyema type.
- Underscores the importance of considering zoonotic sources in pulmonary infections, even with seemingly common pathogens.