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Necrotizing fasciitis due to Pasteurella multocida infection
Y Hamamoto1, Y Soejima, M Ogasawara
1Department of Dermatology, Yamaguchi University School of Medicine, Japan.
Abstract:
Necrotizing fasciitis is a potentially fatal clinical disease caused by infection with various bacteria in addition to streptococci, which are common causative agents. We report on a rare case of this disease in association with Pasteurella multocida infection. A 58-year-old man had systemic features of shock after a 15-hour history of a painful swelling on the right lower leg. The swelling led to skin blistering and necrosis from which P. multocida was isolated. Those lesions progressed rapidly. The patient also had a history of chronic liver injury as described in previous reports.
Insights
Necrotizing fasciitis, a severe bacterial infection, can be caused by bacteria other than streptococci. This report details a rare case involving Pasteurella multocida, highlighting its potential severity.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Necrotizing fasciitis is a severe soft tissue infection with high mortality.
- Streptococci are common causative agents, but polymicrobial infections occur.
- Understanding diverse bacterial involvement is crucial for effective treatment.
Observation:
- A 58-year-old male presented with shock and a rapidly progressing leg lesion.
- The lesion, characterized by blistering and necrosis, yielded Pasteurella multocida.
- The patient had a history of chronic liver injury.
Findings:
- Pasteurella multocida was identified as the causative agent in this rare case of necrotizing fasciitis.
- Rapid progression of skin necrosis and systemic shock were observed.
- Co-morbidity of chronic liver injury was noted.
Implications:
- This case expands the spectrum of known pathogens causing necrotizing fasciitis.
- Early identification and appropriate antibiotic therapy for P. multocida are critical.
- Clinicians should consider non-streptococcal causes in severe soft tissue infections, especially in immunocompromised patients.