Acute Myocardial Infarction after Dog Bite: A Case Report

Abstract

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) after dog bite is rare. Capnocytophaga canimorsus , a Gramnegative, commensal organism of canine buccal cavity may cause bacterimia and sepsis. Hypotensioninduced stasis, septic emboli to the coronary artery, endothelial dysfunction and plaque vulnerability induced by acute inflammation may lead to acute coronary syndrome in this situation. Isolation of the bacteria may be challenging due to fastidious nature of the organism. Management is as per standard protocol. However, appropriate antibiotic therapy is crucial. Like many other parts of the world, dog bite is endemic in Bangladesh. The case presented here reminds us of the need for preparedness to deal with myocardial infarction associated with dog bite effectively.

Key words: Myocardial infarction; Dog bite; Capnocytophaga canimorsus.  

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v1i2.8178

Cardiovasc. j. 2009; 1(2) : 231-233