The University of Toledo Translation Journal of Medical Sciences 
Internal Medicine Abstract, Department of Medicine Research Symposium UTJMS 2023 May 5; 11(1):e1-e1 

https://dx.doi.org/10.46570/utjms.vol11-2023-696 

Who Left the Dog Out (of the History)? - Capnocytophage 
Canimorus Baceteremia Induced Sepsis 

Zachary Holtzapple MD1*, Wilfred J. G. Ellis MD1 

1Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, The University of Toledo, 
Toledo, OH 43614

*Corresponding author: Zachary.Holtzapple@utoledo.edu

Published: 05 May 2023 

Capnocytophage canimorsus is a gram-negative rod bacterium that composes the microbial biome in the 
oral cavity of some canines and felines. It is mostly seen in patients with underlying disorder such as 
asplenia, general alcohol abuse, and cirrhosis. It can lead to multiple complications for patients that 
include meningitis, endocarditis, and sepsis. The history and the broad differential are important details 
for clinicians because of its slow growing nature during blood culturing. Broad-spectrum antibiotics and 
life support are considered the mainstays of treatment for a patient presenting with unknown sepsis that 
may be caused by C. canimorsus. The authors present the risk factors, clinical picture, and treatment for 
the encounter of a patient with sepsis secondary to C. canimorsus. 

https://dx.doi.org/10.46570/utjms.vol11-2023-696
mailto:Zachary.Holtzapple@utoledo.edu