A critical reminder of severe phlegmonous lesion of the hand caused by Pasteurella multocida: a case report

Abstract

Pasteurella multocida is a common pathogen following cat bites; however, severe hand infections leading to amputation remain rare. We report the case of a 54-year-old woman who presented 10 days after a cat bite with pain, swelling, and purulent discharge of the right hand. Despite initial appropriate antibiotic therapy and surgical management, the infection progressed to extensive soft tissue necrosis, ultimately requiring amputation of the distal fifth metacarpal. Clinical improvement was observed after adjustment of the antibiotic regimen. This case underscores the potentially aggressive course of P. multocida hand infections and highlights the critical importance of early recognition and prompt management of cat bites to prevent severe complications, including tissue necrosis and amputation.