What type of bacteria are most commonly found in cat bite abscesses?

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Study for the Clinical Approach to Common Infections Test. Prepare using flashcards and multiple-choice questions, all with hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

What type of bacteria are most commonly found in cat bite abscesses?

Explanation:
Cat bite abscesses arise in low-oxygen, necrotic tissue, which creates an environment where anaerobic bacteria thrive. In these abscesses, anaerobes such as Bacteroides, Peptostreptococcus, and Fusobacterium are commonly isolated, making them the most frequent type involved. While cat bites overall often bring aerobic organisms like Pasteurella multocida that cause cellulitis, abscess formation is more linked to anaerobic flora. That’s why anaerobic bacteria are the best answer. In practice, management includes draining the abscess and starting empiric antibiotics that cover both aerobes and anaerobes (for example, amoxicillin-clavulanate).

Cat bite abscesses arise in low-oxygen, necrotic tissue, which creates an environment where anaerobic bacteria thrive. In these abscesses, anaerobes such as Bacteroides, Peptostreptococcus, and Fusobacterium are commonly isolated, making them the most frequent type involved. While cat bites overall often bring aerobic organisms like Pasteurella multocida that cause cellulitis, abscess formation is more linked to anaerobic flora. That’s why anaerobic bacteria are the best answer. In practice, management includes draining the abscess and starting empiric antibiotics that cover both aerobes and anaerobes (for example, amoxicillin-clavulanate).

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