A case series of Pasteurella multocida infections: Expanding clinical spectrum from localized abscess to necrotizing fasciitis and osteomyelitis

Pasteurella multocida is a zoonotic Gram-negative coccobacillus commonly associated with animal bites and capable of causing invasive disease. We retrospectively analysed five culture-confirmed P. multocida infections at a tertiary care centre in South India between 2018 and 2024. Clinical presentations included cellulitis, abscess, diabetic foot osteomyelitis, preseptal cellulitis, and necrotizing fasciitis. Animal exposure was documented in three patients, while two had no identifiable exposure. All patients received appropriate antimicrobial therapy and achieved favourable outcomes. This series highlights the diverse clinical spectrum of P. multocida infection,the importance of early microbiological diagnosis and culture-directed therapy, even without recognized animal exposure.