Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection led to progressively fatal septic shock in an immunocompetent patient.

BACKGROUND

Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection is rare, with a high fatality rate; however, there are few cases of death with a rapid course. This study reports a progressively fatal case of C. canimorsus.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 68-year-old immunocompetent Japanese man was bitten and scratched on his right hand by a dog 6 days before emergency transportation to the emergency room with abdominal pain, back pain, and melena. The patient developed multiple-organ failure. Despite antibiotic therapy, transfusion, vasopressor therapy, and continuous renal replacement therapy, the patient died from uncontrolled metabolic acidosis 4.5 h after admission. Approximately 80 h after admission, blood cultures were positive for C. canimorsus.

CONCLUSIONS

Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection can lead to rapid progression even in immunocompetent patients.