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Cat scratch disease
Cat scratch disease is a bacterial infection caused by Bartonella henselae bacteria
Prevalence
1-9 / 100 000
Age of Onset
ICD-10
A28.1
Inheritance
This condition does not appear to have a clear pattern of inheritance.
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Cat-scratch disease (CSD) or felinosis is an infectious disease that most often results from a scratch or bite of a cat. Symptoms typically include a non-painful bump or blister at the site of injury and painful and swollen lymph nodes. People may feel tired, have a headache, or a fever. Symptoms typically begin within 3–14 days following infection.
Although rare, CSD can cause people to have serious complications. CSD can affect the brain, eyes, heart, or other internal organs. These rare complications, which may require intensive treatment, are more likely to occur in children 5-14 years of age and people with weakened immune systems.
Cat-scratch disease is caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae which is believed to be spread by the cat's saliva. Young cats pose a greater risk than older cats.
5 Facts you should know
FACT
CSD is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lymph nodes
FACT
It is typically caused by the bacteria bartonella (Bartonella henselae)
FACT
It is usually transmitted by being scratched or bitten by a cat, but rarely, no scratch or bite is involved
FACT
Symptoms typically begin within 3–14 days following infection
FACT
In most patients the disease resolves spontaneously within 2-4 months without treatment
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Common signs & symptoms
Most people with cat scratch disease have been bitten or scratched by a cat and develop a mild infection at the point of injury within about 3-14 days. The infected area may be warm and painful and may appear swollen and red with round, raised lesions. Lymph nodes, especially those around the head, neck, and upper limbs become swollen. Additionally, a person with cat scratch disease may experience fever, headache, fatigue, achiness and discomfort (malaise), sore throat, enlarged spleen, and/or loss of appetite.
Current treatments
Cat scratch disease (CSD) is a bacterial infection caused by Bartonella henselae that typically presents as a self-limiting illness characterized by regional lymphadenopathy and fever. However, in some cases, the disease may be severe or may disseminate, requiring medical intervention.
The choice of antibiotic depends on the severity of the infection, the patient's age, and other factors. Azithromycin is generally recommended as the first-line treatment, with doxycycline, rifampin, and ciprofloxacin used as alternative agents. The duration of antibiotic therapy typically lasts for 5-14 days.
Symptomatic treatment can also be given to manage symptoms such as fever, lymphadenopathy, and fatigue. Analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications can be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
In cases of severe CSD, intravenous antibiotics and surgical intervention may be necessary. Additionally, immunosuppressed individuals, pregnant women, and young children may require more aggressive management.
Prevention measures include avoiding contact with infected cats or taking precautions when handling cats, such as washing hands after handling a cat and avoiding rough play with cats.
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Cat Scratch Disease.
American Academy of Pediatrics. (2018). Red Book: 2018-2021 Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases.
Fenollar, F. & Raoult, D. (2001). Bartonella infections in human: a review.
Top Clinical Trials
Title | Description | Phases | Status | Interventions | More Information |
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Intra-nodal Injection of Gentamicin for the Treatment of Suppurated Cat Scratch Disease's Lymphadenitis (BIGG) (Trial in France) | Double blind controlled study versus placebo. Patients with suppurated CSD's lymphadenitis will receive immediately after the pus aspiration (performed for a diagnostic purpose) an intra-nodal injection of gentamicin or of placebo (NaCl 0,9%) and be treated with oral azithromycin for 5 days. | Phase 3 | Recruiting | Drugs: gentamicin, azithromycin. Drug: placebo | More Info |