Summary
- Pasteurella spp. bacteria, commonly found in the oral flora of cats and dogs, can cause infections in humans through animal bites, with Pasteurella multocida being the most common culprit.
- A rare case of infective endocarditis (IE) in a man in Germany caused by Pasteurella dagmatis, a less common species of Pasteurella bacteria, was reported.
- The patient underwent surgery to remove a paravalvular abscess and replace the prosthetic valve and ascending aorta, with complications such as cardiogenic shock, acute kidney failure, and sinus node dysfunction occurring postoperatively.
- Treatment involved a 6-week course of penicillin G therapy, along with levofloxacin for the first 20 days, leading to successful recovery and discharge from the hospital.
- The case highlighted the importance of considering animal bites, even if the wound appears healed, and the need for careful therapy and follow-up to prevent serious infections like IE caused by Pasteurella bacteria.
In recent news, a man in Germany was diagnosed with a rare infection called infective endocarditis, which was caused by a type of bacteria called Pasteurella dagmatis. This infection is typically associated with animal bites, such as bites from cats or dogs. The man had a fever and weight loss, and doctors discovered that he had been bitten by a cat two months before.
The doctors at the University of Freiburg Faculty of Medicine in Freiburg, Germany, treated the man with antibiotics and conducted tests to identify the bacteria causing the infection. They found that the bacteria, Pasteurella dagmatis, was responsible for the infection. This particular type of bacteria is not commonly associated with causing infective endocarditis, making this case quite rare.
The man underwent surgery to remove the infected tissue and replace a mechanical valve in his heart. During the surgery, the doctors confirmed the presence of Pasteurella dagmatis bacteria in the infected area. The man experienced complications after the surgery, including heart failure and kidney failure, but he eventually recovered after receiving treatment with antibiotics.
This case highlights the importance of recognizing and treating infections caused by unusual bacteria like Pasteurella dagmatis. It also serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with animal bites, even if the wound appears to have healed. By being vigilant about animal contact and seeking medical attention when needed, infections like infective endocarditis can be diagnosed and treated effectively.
This rare case, although challenging, demonstrates the importance of prompt medical intervention and proper antimicrobial therapy in treating infections caused by uncommon bacteria. By sharing this case with the medical community, doctors hope to improve the management of similar cases in the future.
In conclusion, the successful treatment of infective endocarditis caused by Pasteurella dagmatis in this man in Germany serves as a valuable learning opportunity for healthcare providers. By staying informed about uncommon bacterial infections and their treatment, doctors can better care for patients with similar conditions in the future. The collaboration between medical professionals in diagnosing and treating these cases is essential for ensuring positive outcomes for patients.
Infectious Diseases, Cardiology