Rare Infection from Cat Bite Hospitalizes Kidney Transplant Patient

An immunocompromised woman in Slovenia found herself in an unusual medical predicament after her cat seemingly transmitted a rare bacterial infection. This case, detailed in the June issue of Emerging Infectious Diseases, highlights how the feline likely spread a seldom-seen Mycoplasma arginini infection, leading to her hospitalization. Fortunately, early identification and treatment allowed for her recovery.

The 56-year-old woman, who had undergone a kidney transplant, initially sought medical attention after experiencing swelling, redness, and pain in her left forearm for three weeks. Despite being prescribed an oral antibiotic, her condition deteriorated, prompting her admission to the hospital five days later. By then, the infection had spread to her wrist, severely limiting its movement. Tests confirmed the presence of M. arginini bacteria, which had infiltrated her wrist joint, tendons, and surrounding skin.

Unraveling the Mystery of Mycoplasma Infection

Doctors quickly suspected an unusual germ was at play. Mycoplasma bacteria, including M. arginini, are known for their unique characteristics. They are incredibly small and lack a cell wall, rendering them resistant to many conventional antibiotics. This feature likely explains why the initial treatment was ineffective.

The woman reported a recent cat bite on her left arm, providing a crucial clue. With this information, doctors switched her to more effective antibiotics. Although she experienced brief complications, her condition improved, and she was eventually discharged from the hospital. Follow-up visits confirmed the infection had cleared.

Tracing the Source

M. arginini bacteria are commonly found in the respiratory and genital tracts of various animals, including pets. The report’s authors collected samples from the woman’s three cats and dog, discovering mycoplasma bacteria in one of the cats. However, they couldn’t definitively confirm it was M. arginini. Despite this, the recent cat bite and lack of other plausible explanations led doctors to conclude the cat was the likely source of infection.

“While the average person doesn’t have anything to fear from M. arginini, doctors treating immunocompromised patients should be aware of its potential as a pathogen,” the report authors noted.

Understanding Mycoplasma and Immunocompromised Patients

Although some mycoplasma infections are common in humans, such as the sexually transmitted M. genitalium, M. arginini infections are rare. The medical literature documents only a handful of cases, primarily affecting individuals with weakened immune systems. Organ transplant recipients, like the woman in this case, require immunosuppressive drugs to prevent organ rejection, increasing their susceptibility to infections.

Dr. Ana Novak, an infectious disease specialist, explains, “Immunocompromised patients are at greater risk for infections that would not typically affect healthy individuals. This case underscores the importance of vigilance when treating these patients, especially those in contact with animals.”

Precautions and Public Awareness

Cat bites, in general, should not be taken lightly. Cats can harbor various germs capable of causing illness, even in healthy individuals. Therefore, it is crucial to wash cat bites or scratches immediately with soap and running water for at least five minutes. Monitoring for signs of infection, such as redness and swelling, and seeking medical attention if they appear, is essential.

“If you’re in poorer health or were bitten by an unfamiliar animal, you should seek medical care regardless, just in case,” health experts advise.

Implications and Future Considerations

This case serves as a reminder of the potential health risks associated with pet ownership for immunocompromised individuals. While pets provide companionship and emotional support, they can also pose health risks that require careful management. Medical professionals should remain vigilant and consider rare pathogens when treating immunocompromised patients with unusual symptoms.

As for the patient, her recovery highlights the importance of timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The case also emphasizes the need for ongoing research into rare infections and their transmission pathways, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Looking ahead, increased awareness and education about the risks of zoonotic infections can help mitigate potential health threats. By understanding the complexities of such cases, both patients and healthcare providers can better navigate the challenges posed by rare infections.