Cutaneous Pasteurella hemolytica infection

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Cutaneous Pasteurella hemolytica infection is a type of bacterial infection affecting the skin, primarily caused by the bacterium Pasteurella hemolytica, now more commonly referred to as Mannheimia haemolytica. This condition is relatively rare in humans, with most cases reported in individuals who have close contact with livestock, as Mannheimia haemolytica is a well-known pathogen in animals, particularly sheep and cattle, where it can cause respiratory infections known as shipping fever.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of cutaneous Pasteurella hemolytica infection can vary but typically include:

  • Redness and swelling at the site of infection
  • Pain or tenderness
  • Possible discharge or pus
  • Fever and general malaise in more severe cases

Transmission[edit | edit source]

Transmission to humans usually occurs through direct contact with the infected animals or their secretions. Breaks in the skin, such as cuts or abrasions, can serve as entry points for the bacteria. Although less common, there have also been reports of human infection following dog or cat bites, as these animals can carry Pasteurella species in their oral flora.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of cutaneous Pasteurella hemolytica infection involves:

  • Clinical examination and patient history, focusing on animal exposure
  • Laboratory testing, including culture of samples from the infection site to identify the presence of Mannheimia haemolytica

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment typically involves antibiotics to combat the bacterial infection. The choice of antibiotic may be guided by susceptibility testing of the isolated bacteria. In cases of severe infection, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics may be necessary.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures include:

  • Practicing good hygiene and wound care, especially in individuals with close contact with livestock
  • Using protective clothing and equipment to minimize direct skin contact with animals
  • Promptly cleaning and disinfecting any cuts or abrasions sustained while handling animals

See Also[edit | edit source]


Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD