Summary about Disease
Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is a bacterial infection caused by Bartonella henselae. It's most commonly spread through scratches or bites from cats, particularly kittens. While often mild and self-limiting, CSD can sometimes lead to more serious complications.
Symptoms
A small bump or blister (papule or pustule) at the site of the scratch or bite.
Swollen and tender lymph nodes near the scratch or bite location (usually in the armpit, groin, or neck).
Fatigue
Fever
Headache
General feeling of discomfort (malaise) Less common symptoms may include:
Encephalitis (brain inflammation)
Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome (conjunctivitis with nearby lymph node swelling)
Bacillary angiomatosis (blood vessel tumors, primarily in immunocompromised individuals)
Osteomyelitis (bone infection)
Causes
CSD is caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. Cats become infected, likely through flea bites or flea dirt. Cats typically do not show symptoms of the infection. The bacteria are transmitted to humans through scratches, bites, or potentially when a cat licks an open wound.
Medicine Used
Most cases of CSD resolve on their own without specific treatment. However, antibiotics may be prescribed for more severe or persistent cases, or for people with weakened immune systems. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include:
Azithromycin
Doxycycline
Ciprofloxacin
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX)
Rifampin Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage fever and discomfort.
Is Communicable
? CSD is generally not communicable from person to person. It's transmitted from cats to humans.
Precautions
Avoid rough play with cats, especially kittens, that might lead to scratches or bites.
Wash cat scratches and bites thoroughly with soap and water immediately.
Control fleas on your pets and in your home.
Do not allow cats to lick open wounds.
If you have a weakened immune system, consider avoiding contact with cats, especially kittens.
How long does an outbreak last?
The swollen lymph nodes typically appear 1-3 weeks after the scratch or bite and can last for 2-4 months, sometimes longer. Other symptoms like fever and fatigue usually resolve within a few weeks.
How is it diagnosed?
History and Physical Exam: The doctor will ask about cat exposure and examine the symptoms.
Blood Tests: Blood tests can detect antibodies to Bartonella henselae.
Lymph Node Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy of an affected lymph node may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Testing: PCR tests can detect Bartonella henselae DNA in blood or tissue samples.
Timeline of Symptoms
3-10 days: A small bump or blister (papule or pustule) appears at the site of the scratch or bite.
1-3 weeks: Lymph nodes near the scratch or bite become swollen and tender.
Variable: Fever, fatigue, headache, and other systemic symptoms may develop around the same time as the lymph node swelling.
2-4 months (or longer): Lymph node swelling gradually resolves. Other symptoms typically resolve within a few weeks.
Important Considerations
Individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressant medications) are at higher risk for more severe CSD and complications.
If symptoms are severe or persistent, or if you have a weakened immune system, consult a doctor.
While most cats carrying Bartonella henselae don't show symptoms, kittens are more likely to carry the bacteria and transmit it to humans.