Which organism is associated with shortness of breath, livestock exposure, and increased liver function tests?

The organism associated with shortness of breath, livestock exposure, and increased liver function tests is Coxiella burnetii. This bacterium is the causative agent of Q fever, which is a zoonotic infection transmitted primarily through inhalation of contaminated aerosols from livestock or through direct contact with infected animals or their products.

Coxiella burnetii infection can manifest with respiratory symptoms, including cough and shortness of breath, due to pneumonia or atypical respiratory illness. Additionally, it can lead to elevated liver function tests as the infection may cause hepatitis. The combination of respiratory symptoms and exposure history to livestock makes Coxiella burnetii a significant consideration in the differential diagnosis.

Other organisms listed do not typically present with this specific combination of symptoms and exposure history in the same way. For example, Escherichia coli is more commonly associated with gastrointestinal symptoms and urinary tract infections rather than respiratory issues linked with livestock. Staphylococcus aureus is generally linked to skin infections, pneumonia, and other systemic issues but does not have a strong association with livestock exposure. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is frequently implicated in nosocomial infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients, but does not align with the exposure and symptom scenario described.