Survival after cardiac arrest secondary to Capnocytophaga canimorsus meningitis: A case report.

BACKGROUND

Capnocytophaga canimorsus is a fastidious zoonotic pathogen, commonly transmitted from dogs or cats, that may cause fulminant sepsis and meningitis. Diagnosis is frequently delayed due to its slow growth, underscoring the importance of early clinical recognition and empiric therapy.

CASE PRESENTATION: We present a case of Capnocytophaga sepsis with meningitis that resulted in seizure, multi-organ failure and cardiac arrest in a previously immunocompetent individual. With prompt investigation and diagnostics, Capnocytophaga was identified and with supportive therapies, the patient has recovered with minimal sequelae.

CONCLUSIONS

Capnocytophaga is an emerging pathogen in immunocompetent individuals in Australia. Thorough early investigations have the potential to change patient outcomes in this condition.