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Pasteurella multocida peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis
1Department of Medicine, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC 20307-5001, USA.
Abstract:
Pasteurella multocida infection may occur in multiple sites to include rare involvement of the peritoneal cavity in peritoneal dialysis patients. Six cases of peritonitis associated with this organism have been reported in patients undergoing continuous peritoneal dialysis. A history of close contact with household cats was noted in all cases, with direct trauma to the dialysis tubing frequently seen. In this setting the organism appears to have a short incubation period with florid growth within 24 hours of known contamination. We report a case of Pasteurella multocida peritonitis in a patient treated with continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis and review the literature.
Insights
Pasteurella multocida can cause rare peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients, often linked to cat contact and dialysis tube trauma. Infections develop rapidly, within 24 hours of contamination.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Nephrology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Peritonitis is a serious complication for patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.
- Pasteurella multocida is an opportunistic pathogen typically associated with animal bites or scratches.
Observation:
- This report details six cases of peritonitis caused by Pasteurella multocida in continuous peritoneal dialysis patients.
- A common factor in all cases was close contact with household cats.
- Direct trauma to the dialysis tubing was frequently observed in conjunction with cat exposure.
Findings:
- Pasteurella multocida peritonitis in this context exhibits a rapid onset, with significant bacterial growth occurring within 24 hours of suspected contamination.
- The organism's presence in the peritoneal cavity suggests a route of infection facilitated by breaches in dialysis equipment integrity, potentially introduced via the percutaneous route.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering Pasteurella multocida in peritonitis cases among peritoneal dialysis patients, especially with a history of cat exposure.
- Emphasizes the need for vigilance regarding potential contamination routes, including trauma to dialysis tubing, to prevent rapid-onset infections.
- Suggests enhanced patient education on zoonotic risks and meticulous catheter site care is crucial for preventing such infections.