Pasteurella Pneumonia With Complicated Parapneumonic Effusion in a Pet Owner

TL;DR

A rare case of pneumonia caused by Pasteurella multocida in a pet owner with COPD highlights the need for early diagnosis and treatment.

Contribution

This case report adds to the limited literature on P. multocida-induced empyema, emphasizing its potential as a respiratory pathogen in pet-exposed individuals.

Findings

Pasteurella multocida was identified in sputum cultures from a patient with empyema.

The patient had no recent animal bites or scratches but lived with pets.

The case underscores the importance of considering P. multocida in respiratory infections with pet exposure.

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.

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