Capnocytophaga canimorsus in a postsplenectomy patient

Abstract

<i>Capnocytophaga canimorsus</i>, formally known as Dysgonic fer-menter 2 (DF-2), is a commensal bacteria of dog and cat saliva. It can be transmitted to humans by bite, scratch, or mere exposure to animals by licking. It is a Gram negative rod that typically causes septicaemia and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy. Derma-tological lesions and gangrene are common. The reported mortality rate is up to 30%. Most of the patients affected have compromised immunity, secondary to splenectomy or alcoholism. However, in one of the review articles, up to 40% of septicaemia occurred in patients with no predisposing factors. We described a 60-year-old female who presented with septicaemia secondary to <i>Capnocytophaga canimorsus</i>, following a minor bite by a dog. Her medical history included splenectomy for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura 24 years ago, with normal blood count since the sple-nectomy. The diagnosis was strongly suspected on peripheral blood film, which was later confirmed on blood cultures. Despite maximal therapy and surgical intervention, the patient succumbed to the infection. In view of the severity of this infection, clinicians should be aware of the possibility of <i>Capnocytophaga canimorsus</i> infection in the management of animal bites, especially in patients with predisposing factors.