Capnocytophaga canimorsus is a bacterium present in the gums of dogs and cats and can be transmitted to people through licking and scratching, for example, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, fever and vomiting, for example.
This bacterium does not normally cause symptoms in animals and does not always cause symptoms in person, only when the person has a condition that lowers the immune system, facilitating the spread of this bacteria in the bloodstream.
The treatment of infection by this microorganism is done with the use of antibiotics, such as Penicillin and Ceftazidime, for example.
Symptoms of infection
Symptoms of Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection usually appear 3 to 5 days after exposure to this microorganism and usually only appear in people who have changes in their defense system, such as people who have removed the spleen, smokers, alcoholics or who use drugs that decrease the activity of the immune system, as in the case of people being treated for cancer or HIV, for example. Learn how to strengthen the immune system.
The main symptoms related to Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection are:
- Fever; Vomiting; Diarrhea; Muscle and joint pain; Redness or swelling in the area that has been licked or bitten; Blisters appear around the wound or lick site; Headache.
Infection with Capnocytophaga canimorsus happens mainly through scratches or bites from dogs or cats, but it can also happen due to direct contact with the animal's saliva, through kisses on the mouth or muzzle or licking.
If Capnocytophaga canimorsus infection is not identified and treated quickly, especially in those people who are most susceptible, there may be several complications, such as heart disease, kidney failure, and gangrene. In addition, there may be sepsis, which is when the bacteria spreads through the bloodstream, resulting in more severe symptoms and can lead to death. Understand what blood infection is.
How the treatment is done
The treatment for this type of infection is mainly done with the use of antibiotics, such as Penicillin, Ampicillin and third generation cephalosporins, such as Ceftazidime, Cefotaxime and Cefixime, for example, which should be used according to the doctor's recommendation.
In addition, if the animal has licked, bitten or scratched any part of the person's body, it is recommended to wash the area with soap and water and consult the doctor, even if there are no symptoms, as not only Capnocytophaga canimorsus can be transmitted by animals, but also rabies.
