Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Cat with recurring chest skin sores from infected bite wound bone
By Seung‐yeon Yu & Sungin Lee·Published in Veterinary Medicine and Science·2024·Department of Veterinary Surgery College of Veterinary Medicine Chungbuk National University Cheongju Republic of Korea, GB·View original on DOAJ →
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Original publication title: Recurrent skin opening induced by chronic sternal osteomyelitis caused by a bite wound in a cat: A case report
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A 2-year-old male domestic shorthair cat had recurring skin openings every few months due to a serious infection in the bone of his chest, caused by a previous bite wound. Despite attempts to clean and repair the skin, the problem persisted until a thorough examination revealed a deeper issue with the bone. The vet performed surgery to remove the infected tissue and prescribed long-term antibiotics. After the treatment, the cat did not have any further issues for 18 months, marking a successful recovery.
People also search for: cat skin opening treatment · cat osteomyelitis symptoms · cat bite wound care · chronic skin problems in cats
Abstract
Abstract Background Chronic sternal osteomyelitis is a rare condition in felines, with limited reported cases to date. Objectives We report the case of a 2‐year‐old castrated male, domestic shorthair cat, weighing 4.68 kg, that presented with skin openings every 3–4 months, despite skin debridement and reconstruction. Methods A subcutaneous dead space larger than the skin defect was detected. Haematological analysis revealed elevated levels of inflammatory markers. Thoracic radiography revealed sternal deformation and suspected osteomyelitis. Computed tomography revealed a fistula extending from the third to the fourth sternebrae. Results Bone and soft tissue debridement and abscess flushing were performed along with long‐term antibiotic therapy. The cat remained recurrence‐free throughout an 18‐month post‐surgery follow‐up period. Conclusion To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of chronic osteomyelitis occurring in a cat's sternebrae and represents the first successful case of its treatment. This case showcases the potential for improved treatment outcomes in similar cases. Understanding and successful treatment of such cases can pave the way for better management of feline osteomyelitis.
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Search related cases →Original publication on DOAJ: https://doi.org/10.1002/vms3.1425