Pasteurella multocida: Pathogenesis and Clinical Findings, Treatment, Prevention and Control.

Question 1

Pasteurella multocida: pathogenesis

Answer 1

1. Pasteurella multocida is a facultative anaerobic, gram-negative coccobacillus
2. that is part of the normal flora of the mouths and respiratory tracts of many animals, especially cats and dogs.
3. Human infection typically follows animal bites, scratches, or licking of broken skin.
4. The bacterium has a polysaccharide capsule that inhibits phagocytosis and contributes to virulence.
5. It produces endotoxin and can invade soft tissues, leading to localized or systemic infection depending on host immunity.

Question 2

Pasteurella multocida: clinical findings

Answer 2

1. The most common manifestation is a rapidly developing soft tissue infection at the site of an animal bite or scratch, typically within 24 hours.
2. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and possibly pus formation.
3. In severe cases, cellulitis, abscess, septic arthritis, or osteomyelitis may occur.
4. In immunocompromised individuals, respiratory tract infections, bacteremia, or meningitis can develop.
5. Infections are more severe in people with underlying diseases such as liver cirrhosis or diabetes.

Question 3

Pasteurella multocida: treatment

Answer 3

1. The drug of choice is penicillin.
2. Alternatives include amoxicillin-clavulanate, doxycycline, or fluoroquinolones.
3. Pasteurella is resistant to first-generation cephalosporins, macrolides, and clindamycin, which should be avoided.
4. For bite wounds, empiric therapy often includes amoxicillin-clavulanate to cover both Pasteurella and other oral flora.
5. Surgical drainage may be necessary for abscesses or joint infections.

Question 4

Pasteurella multocida: prevention and control

Answer 4

1. Prevention focuses on proper wound care after animal bites or scratches, including thorough cleaning and disinfection.
2. Prophylactic antibiotics may be given for high-risk wounds or in immunocompromised patients.
3. Vaccination of animals is not currently used to prevent human disease.
4. Public education about animal handling and bite prevention also plays a role in reducing infections.