Hand tendinitis from cat bite

a case report

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Cat bites account for a significant portion of injuries treated in emergency services and can result in serious soft tissue infections, including tendon infections. The diversity of the feline oral flora, with multiple microorganisms, increases the risk of infectious complications. Objective: This case report aims to present a case of hand tendonitis resulting from a cat bite, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment for these infections. CASE REPORT: A 27-year-old female veterinarian was bitten by a cat on the third finger of her right hand. After initial treatment with cephalexin without improvement of symptoms, she underwent an ultrasound, which revealed findings consistent with tendonitis. The antibiotic regimen was adjusted to amoxicillin-clavulanate, resulting in complete symptom remission in 10 days. DISCUSSION: Ultrasound played a crucial role in the accurate diagnosis of post-cat bite tendonitis, allowing for the identification of tendon changes and guiding appropriate treatment. The use of this bedside imaging examination proved to be effective in altering the therapeutic management of joint infections. CONCLUSION: A multidisciplinary approach, including clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as ultrasound, and appropriate adjustment of antibiotic therapy, is fundamental in the treatment of infections resulting from cat bites. Rapid identification and intervention are essential to prevent serious complications.