Furry, Fomite, and Facultative Anaerobe: A Unique Case of Capnocytophaga canimorsus

Abstract

Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection is frequently associated with dog and cat bites or scratches in patients who have risk factors such as immunosuppression, asplenia, and alcohol abuse. However, rare instances of C. canimorsus infection in patients without typical risk factors have been reported. Here, we present such a rare and unusual case of C. canimorsus bacteremia in a patient without animal wounds or risk factors. Chronic sinusitis may have contributed to mucosal disruption and served as an entry point for C. canimorsus. Prompt initiation of antibiotics resulted in rapid resolution of symptoms and clearance of bacteremia.

Keywords: bacteremia; canine (domestic); capnocytophaga canimorsus; immunocompetent; risk factors; sinusitis.

Figure 1. CT sinus revealing chronic sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis and postsurgical changes with no findings to indicate superimposed acute sinusitis. Mucosal thickening bilaterally in the frontoethmoidal recesses is noted.