Cat scratch disease is caused by bartonella species, most commonly bartonella henselae, a gram negative bacilli.
Transmission to humans is via cat scratches.
Presentation:
- Erythematous papule at site of scratch
- Regional lympahdenopathy
- Possibly systemic features such as fever, malaise, headache
- Possibly hepatosplenomegaly
Rare complications of cat scratch disease include:
- Endocarditis
- Encephalopathy
Treatment is supportive and possibly antibiotics (rifampicin, ciprofloxacin or gentamicin) in systemic disease.
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