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A fatal case of Pasteurella multocida epiglottitis

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Abstract

Introduction

Pasteurella multocida, a Gram-negative bacillus, is rarely associated with acute respiratory infections.

Aim

To describe a case of fatal P. multocida epiglottitis.

Results

A 52-year-old gentleman developed a sore throat and died suddenly within an hour of seeing his general practitioner. Post-mortem findings were consistent with death due to laryngeal obstruction associated with epiglottitis and laryngopharyngitis. A swab taken from the epiglottis for culture was positive for P. multocida.

Conclusion

Physicians should be aware of the potential for acute deterioration in adults with acute epiglottitis.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medical Microbiology, Galway University Hospital, Galway, Ireland

    K. O’Connell & J. Fennell

  2. Department of Histopathology, Galway University Hospital, Galway, Ireland

    J. Callaghan & B. Rowaiye

  3. Department of Bacteriology, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland

    M. Cormican

Authors
  1. K. O’Connell
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  2. J. Fennell
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  3. J. Callaghan
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  4. B. Rowaiye
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  5. M. Cormican
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to K. O’Connell.

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O’Connell, K., Fennell, J., Callaghan, J. et al. A fatal case of Pasteurella multocida epiglottitis. Ir J Med Sci 178, 541–542 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-009-0396-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-009-0396-3

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