Pasteurellosis: What It Is and How It Is Treated

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr T Aamarasimha Reddy , Critical Care

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Pasteurellosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria called Pasteurella. These bacteria naturally live in the mouths and respiratory tracts of animals, such as dogs, cats, and livestock, and can be transmitted to humans through bites, scratches, or close contact with infected animals. Pasteurellosis typically occurs when the bacteria enter the body through broken skin or mucous membranes, leading to infection.

It is essential to seek medical attention if you suspect you have been exposed to Pasteurella, especially if you have a weakened immune system or chronic health conditions. Properly cleaning and caring for wounds from animal bites or scratches can help reduce the risk of infection and complications.

What are the Types of Pasteurellosis?

Pasteurellosis can affect different parts of the body depending on how the Pasteurella bacteria enter the body and the individual's health status. The infection most commonly affects the skin and soft tissues after animal bites or scratches, but it can also involve the respiratory system, bloodstream, eyes, joints, or other organs.

Cutaneous pasteurellosis is the most common form, resulting from skin contact with infected animals or their secretions.
Respiratory pasteurellosis occurs when the bacteria are inhaled, leading to symptoms like pneumonia and bronchitis.
Systemic pasteurellosis is a more severe form that can affect multiple organs and lead to septicemia.
Ocular pasteurellosis affects the eyes and can result from eye exposure to contaminated material.
Gastrointestinal pasteurellosis can occur from ingesting contaminated food or water, causing gastrointestinal symptoms.
Joint pasteurellosis can lead to joint infections, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

The severity of pasteurellosis varies according to the site of infection and the individual's underlying health. Prompt evaluation is particularly important when symptoms develop after an animal bite or scratch.

What are the Symptoms of Pasteurellosis?

Pasteurellosis, caused by the bacterium Pasteurella multocida, can lead to a range of symptoms in humans. These may include redness, swelling, and pain at the site of infection, often after a bite or scratch from an animal. Other common signs can be fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes.

In severe cases, pasteurellosis can progress to more serious infections such as pneumonia or bloodstream infections. Recognizing symptoms early can help ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms of pasteurellosis may include fever, chills, and body aches, similar to flu-like symptoms.
Infected individuals might experience painful, swollen joints and muscles, leading to decreased mobility.
Skin infections with redness, tenderness, and swelling at the site of a wound can occur.
Some people with pasteurellosis may develop respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
In severe cases, individuals may develop septicemia with symptoms like rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, and confusion.

What are the Causes of Pasteurellosis?

The main factors contributing to pasteurellosis include close contact with infected animals, particularly through broken skin, bites, or saliva exposure. Poor wound care or inadequate hygiene practices following animal contact can increase the risk of infection. Individuals with compromised immune systems are also more susceptible to developing pasteurellosis.

Pasteurellosis can be caused by animal bites, especially from cats and dogs, leading to infection with Pasteurella multocida bacteria.
Exposure to contaminated soil or water can result in Pasteurella infection, particularly for individuals with compromised immune systems.
People working in close contact with livestock, such as farmers and veterinarians, are at risk of contracting pasteurellosis.
Chronic respiratory conditions like bronchitis or emphysema can predispose individuals to Pasteurella infection, causing pasteurellosis.
Pasteurellosis may occur following surgeries or traumatic injuries that introduce Pasteurella bacteria into the body, leading to infection.

When to See a Doctor?

Seek critical care medical attention if you develop symptoms after contact with animals, particularly following a bite or scratch, as early treatment can prevent complications and serious infection.

Redness, swelling, or pain at the site of a bite or scratch
Fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes
Respiratory symptoms such as cough or shortness of breath

Get medical help immediately if:

Rapidly spreading infection or severe pain
Signs of bloodstream infection, such as confusion or low blood pressure
Difficulty breathing or chest pain

These could indicate serious complications related to Pasteurellosis and require urgent care.

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How Is Pasteurellosis Diagnosed?

Pasteurellosis is diagnosed using a combination of the patient's symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. A history of recent contact with animals, particularly bites or scratches, can provide an important clue.

Laboratory testing can help confirm the presence of Pasteurella bacteria and determine whether the infection has affected deeper tissues or other organs.

Diagnosis of pasteurellosis typically involves a physical exam and a review of symptoms.
Blood tests can help detect signs of infection and assess the patient's overall condition.
Culturing samples from infected sites can confirm the presence of Pasteurella multocida.
Imaging studies like X-rays may reveal associated complications, such as abscesses or pneumonia.
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests can identify Pasteurella DNA in clinical samples.
A thorough medical history can provide valuable information about potential exposure to animals carrying Pasteurella bacteria.

What are the Treatment Options for Pasteurellosis?

Pasteurellosis caused by Pasteurella multocida can usually be treated effectively with antibiotics. The choice of antibiotic depends on the site and severity of infection, as well as the patient's overall health.

Proper wound care is also important, particularly when pasteurellosis develops after an animal bite or scratch. Severe or invasive infections may require hospitalization and intravenous treatment.

Antibiotics: Penicillin, amoxicillin, and other appropriate antibiotics may be used depending on the infection and clinical assessment.
Severe Cases: May require hospitalization for IV antibiotics and supportive care.
Wound Care: Regular cleaning and dressing of infected wounds is essential.
Pain Management: Medication may be prescribed to alleviate discomfort.
Immune-Suppressed Patients: May need intensive treatment and close monitoring.
Prevention: Promptly clean and disinfect animal bites or scratches and seek medical advice when appropriate.
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis: Antibiotics may be recommended for certain high-risk individuals after animal bites or scratches based on clinical assessment.

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What are the Risk Factors of Pasteurellosis?

The risk of developing pasteurellosis is higher among people who have frequent contact with animals or experience animal bites and scratches. Certain health conditions can also increase the likelihood of developing a more severe infection.

Recognizing these risk factors can help individuals take appropriate precautions and seek medical attention promptly after potential exposure.

Close contact with domestic animals, such as cats and dogs, increases the risk of pasteurellosis transmission.
Animal bites and scratches, especially from cats, can introduce Pasteurella bacteria into the body.
Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, are more susceptible to pasteurellosis.
People who work in veterinary clinics or animal shelters have a higher risk of contracting pasteurellosis due to frequent animal exposure.
Chronic skin conditions, like eczema or psoriasis, can provide entry points for Pasteurella bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.

How Can Pasteurellosis Be Prevented?

Preventing pasteurellosis mainly involves reducing exposure to animal bites and scratches and providing prompt care for wounds. Good hygiene and appropriate precautions when handling animals can help lower the risk of infection.

Clean animal bites and scratches promptly with soap and running water.
Avoid unnecessary contact with unfamiliar or aggressive animals.
Use appropriate protective measures when working closely with animals.
Seek medical evaluation for deep, contaminated, or high-risk animal bites and scratches.
Follow wound-care and antibiotic instructions provided by a healthcare professional.