16 - Animal Bites and Associated Infections

Question 1

What agenst are likely to cause infection after an animal bite? (know the most common)

Answer 1

Question 2

1. What clinical characteristics would signal an infected bite? (list 3)

Answer 2

• Intense inflame, pain, & swelling w/in 24-48 hours
• 20% fever, adenopathy, & lymphangitis
• may result in abscess formation, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, sepsis, meningitis, endocarditis, & pneumonia

Question 3

When are abx indicated after an animal bite?

Answer 3

Moderate to severe bites, cat bites, patients with diabetes/immunocomp, deep puncture wounds, bites to the face or hands

Question 4

How is Bartonella Henselae transmitted to humans? Cats?

Answer 4

Scratch or bite (often from kittens)
Fleas important in cat to cat transmission

Question 5

When are cats more likely to transmit Bartonella henselae?

Answer 5

When they are parasitized by fleas (get infected flea dirt in claws)

Question 6

Describe some measures to your clients on how to prevent dog bites (list 4)

Answer 6

• Dogs w/ hx of aggression not allowed in households w/ children
• Be sens to children that are fearful of dogs
• Spend time with dog before buying/adopting
• Never leave small children alone with do
• Spay/neuter all dogs, properly socialize/train, don’t play aggressive games