Capnocytophaga canimorsus (gram-negative anaerobic filamentous rod)

Capnocytophaga canimorsus is an opportunistic pathogen causing multiorgan disease in humans that was first reported in 1976. Therefore, C. canimorsus is considered an emerging disease because of its recent discovery of causing disease. It is part of the normal gingival flora of cats and dogs and has been isolated from the mouths of 24% of dogs and 17% of cats. C. canimorsus is of particular concern in people who have been splenectomized, have Hodgkins’ disease, have idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, are on steroid treatment or are alcoholics. Of those people diagnosed with Capnocytophaga canimorsus, the majority have been associated with dog or cat bites or scratches or contact with wild animals. Twenty percent of the cases have had contact with a dog but with no history of bites or scratches.

Dogs and Cats

Capnocytophaga canimorsus is considered part of the normal flora in the dog and cat and does not cause disease in these species.

C. canimorsus infection can cause a variety of symptoms in humans. There is an overwhelming sepsis with disseminated intravascular necrosis and symmetrical peripheral gangrene. Renal failure, endocarditis, arthritis, pulmonary abscessation, and meningitis can all occur. The bacteria have an affinity for the eye causing blepharitis and severe keratitis. The mortality rate is very high.

lung abscess

Diagnosis: Is made with isolation of the organism from blood, other fluids or tissues. It has been found in the peripheral blood smears of bacteremic patients. Organism is slow growing, fastidious, and may take 8 days of incubation.

Treatment: Is a serious issue and humans with any symptoms should see their physician immediately.

Prevention: Splenectomized and other immunocompromised patients should exercise caution to avoid cog and cat bites.

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