What question did this study set out to answer?

This case aims to illustrate the transmission of Bordetella bronchiseptica from animals to humans, particularly in vulnerable populations.

April 21, 2026Open Access

Necrotizing and cavitary pneumonia due to Bordetella bronchiseptica transmission from a cat: A case report

Key Points

This case aims to illustrate the transmission of Bordetella bronchiseptica from animals to humans, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Detailed exposure history to a pet cat was collected.
Respiratory culture isolated Bordetella bronchiseptica.
Imaging techniques confirmed the diagnosis of necrotizing cavitary pneumonia.
The patient showed significant clinical improvement after treatment with intravenous piperacillin-tazobactam and oral ciprofloxacin.
Radiological images demonstrated near-complete resolution of pneumonia at six weeks.
Close daily exposure to the coughing pet cat was identified as the likely source of infection.

Abstract

Introduction: Bordetella bronchiseptica is an animal-associated respiratory pathogen. Human infection is uncommon but can be severe, especially in older people or those with comorbidities. Case Report: A 75-year-old woman presented with fever, dyspnea, and productive cough. Imaging showed necrotizing cavitary pneumonia. B. bronchiseptica was isolated on respiratory culture, and close daily exposure to a coughing pet cat was the likely source. She improved with intravenous piperacillin-tazobactam and oral ciprofloxacin, with near-complete radiological resolution at six weeks. Conclusion: This case highlights the need to consider zoonotic pathogens in atypical pneumonia, to obtain an exposure history, and to target antibiotics based on microbiology and susceptibility results.

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