Question

Patients at risk for Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection:

Statement 1: A) Patients with a history of cat bites.
Statement 2: B) Patients with a history of dog bites.
Statement 3: C) Patients with a history of bird-related injuries.
Statement 4: D) Patients with a history of reptile bites.

Answer 1

Individuals with a history of dog bites are at risk for Capnocytophaga canimorsus infections, particularly if they have compromised immune systems. Cat bites can lead to cat-scratch disease caused by Bartonella henselae.

Step-by-step explanation:

Patients at risk for Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection are those with a history of dog bites. Capnocytophaga canimorsus is a bacteria that is commonly found in the mouths of dogs and cats, and it can cause illness in individuals who are bitten. Those with compromised immune systems, due to conditions such as asplenia, alcoholism or immunosuppression, are particularly at risk for serious complications. By comparison, cat bites can lead to cat-scratch disease (CSD), caused by Bartonella henselae, and the information provided about B. henselae pertains to the potential consequences of such infections in humans. Patients with a history of bird-related injuries could be at risk for infections with Chlamydia psittaci, known as psittacosis or parrot fever but not Capnocytophaga canimorsus. Infections from bird or reptile bites are caused by different pathogens and are not associated with Capnocytophaga canimorsus.