Dog Bites in Humans: Current Insights into Causative Microorganisms and Associated Infections

By Ermira MUCO, Amarildo BLLOSHMI, Ornela CELA, Najada KALLASHI (JAHIQI)

Abstract
Introduction: Although dogs are considered humans’ best friends, they often bite and cause wounds that may become complicated with life-threatening infections. Various Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms can lead to conditions such as sepsis, septic shock, multiorgan failure, tetanus, rabies, and others. The cornerstone of management is appropriate wound care, immunoprophylaxis, and treatment with selected antibiotics and other necessary symptomatic therapies.   Methods: A review of the literature was conducted to identify studies addressing the microbial agents, infectious syndromes or nosologies caused by dog bites, and the antibiotic and immunoprophylactic measures aimed at preventing secondary infectious complications. Diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in these patients were also evaluated, as well as the role of clinical microbiology laboratories in isolating microorganisms from wound or blood cultures.
Results: Dog bites carry a significant risk of infectious diseases such as tetanus and rabies. Despite the availability of vaccination, tetanus remains a global threat and a serious public health issue in our country, with mortality rates reaching up to 40%. These patients may also present with clinical manifestations of meningitis, endocarditis, fasciitis, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, and other conditions caused by diverse microbial pathogens.
Conclusions: Dog bites are common incidents worldwide and in our region, leading to physical impairment, psychological trauma, secondary wound infections, and potentially life-threatening infectious diseases, as well as considerable economic costs. Proper and timely management of these patients requires strong and professional interdisciplinary collaboration.