Periocular abscess and cellulitis from Pasteurella multocida in a healthy child.

Purpose: To examine an unusual cause of periorbital cellulitis, Pasteurella multocida.

Methods: Case report, review of the literature.

Results: We treated a 13-year-old previously healthy child who developed Pasteurella preseptal cellulitis secondary to a cat bite and cat scratch. After receiving a dose of intravenous antibiotics and starting oral antibiotics, the child had delayed onset of several abscesses around the right eye, with marked pain and erythema. After incision and drainage, he improved.

Conclusion: Pasteurella multocida is a rare but potentially serious cause of ocular infection. All cases of potential exposure should be treated promptly and followed until complete resolution of infection.