Medicine
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Review Case Reports
Purpura fulminans and symmetrical peripheral gangrene caused by Capnocytophaga canimorsus (formerly DF-2) septicemia--a complication of dog bite.
We review the syndrome of Capnocytophaga canimorsus (DF-2) septicemia after exposure to dogs or cats. We describe a previously healthy patient who developed diffuse intravascular coagulation and symmetrical peripheral gangrene as a result of C. canimorsus septicemia after a dog bite. To our knowledge, this patient was the first to receive combined plasmapheresis and leukapheresis for C. canimorsus septicemia. ⋯ Other complications include arthritis, meningitis, and endocarditis. These manifestations can also be found in previously healthy patients, although a prior splenectomy or other causes of impaired host defense clearly enhance the risk. Prompt treatment with penicillin G is required.