Which organism is most frequently isolated from abscesses resulting from cat bites?

The organism most frequently isolated from abscesses resulting from cat bites is Pasteurella multocida. This bacterium is commonly part of the oral flora of cats, and when they bite, it can easily be inoculated into tissues, leading to infection.

Pasteurella multocida is particularly notable in cat bites because it has virulence factors that enable it to cause rapid and severe infections, often producing abscesses that may require drainage and antibiotic treatment. This highlights the importance of recognizing cat bites as a potential source of infection and knowing the specific pathogens that are likely to be involved.

Other organisms, while important in different contexts, are less commonly associated with cat bite abscesses. For instance, E. coli is primarily linked to gastrointestinal infections and is not typically found in cat bites. Staphylococcus aureus can cause skin infections but is not a primary pathogen associated with cat bites specifically. Clostridium perfringens, while known for causing gas gangrene and other serious infections, is also not a common isolate from cat bite wounds. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective management and treatment of bite-related infections.