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Pasteurella multocida pneumonia
1Infectious Disease Division, Winthrop-University Hospital, Mineola, New York 11501, USA.
Seminars in Respiratory Infections
|March 1, 1997
Summary
Pasteurella multocida, a common animal bacterium, can cause respiratory infections in elderly individuals with chronic lung disease. Penicillin or doxycycline are effective treatments for these Pasteurella infections.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Human Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Pasteurella multocida is a Gram-negative coccobacillus found in animal nasopharynx and GI tracts.
- It commonly causes soft tissue infections post-animal bite but can also lead to respiratory infections via inhalation of secretions.
- Elderly patients with underlying lung conditions like COPD, bronchiectasis, or malignancy are particularly susceptible to Pasteurella pulmonary infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight Pasteurella multocida as a significant cause of respiratory tract infections in specific patient populations.
- To emphasize the clinical presentation and diagnostic considerations for Pasteurella pulmonary infections.
- To review the spectrum of Pasteurella-related pulmonary diseases and their treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Pasteurella multocida infections.
- Analysis of clinical features and patient demographics.
- Review of treatment guidelines and antimicrobial efficacy.
Main Results:
- The respiratory tract is the second most common site for Pasteurella infections.
- Clinical symptoms are often indistinguishable from other respiratory pathogens.
- Elderly patients with chronic lung disease are at higher risk.
Conclusions:
- A history of animal exposure (cats, dogs) should prompt consideration of Pasteurella in elderly patients with chronic lung disease presenting with respiratory symptoms.
- Penicillin is the preferred treatment, with doxycycline as a highly effective alternative for Pasteurella infections.