Pasteurella Pneumonia With Complicated Parapneumonic Effusion in a Pet Owner
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Pasteurella multocida is a gram-negative coccobacillus commonly found in the oral flora of cats and dogs. While often associated with soft tissue infections, such as cellulitis and skin abscess following animal bites or scratches, empyema due to P. multocida is rare and primarily described in case reports. We present a case of a middle-aged woman with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diagnosed with empyema with a complicated course that required long-term antibiotic therapy. Her sputum cultures grew P. multocida; despite living with pet dogs and cats, she denied any recent bites or scratches. This case emphasizes the need for heightened awareness of P. multocida as a respiratory pathogen, particularly in patients with pet exposure and significant comorbidities. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are crucial for managing this rare but serious infection effectively.
Source: Cureus
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.79887
Authors: Hajar El Amri, Soomal Rafique, Ali Zubairi
Institution: SIU Medicine
Language: English
Subfield: Microbiology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4408076324