cat scratch disease
A febrile disease characterized by lymphadenitis and , in some cases, conjunctivitis, uveitis, endocarditis, osteomyelitis, or central nervous system infections, transmitted to people by cats, esp. kittens. Fever, malaise, headache, and anorexia accompany the lymphadenopathy. The causative organism is Bartonella henselae (formerly Rochalimaea), which in cats usually produces asymptomatic infection. Diagnosis is based on clinical findings, a history of contact with cats, and positive results from a cat scratch antigen skin test. Antibiotics are not recommended in mild disease, but aminoglycosides, quinolones, or macrolides may be indicated for severe, disseminated disease. SYN: benign lymphoreticulosis of inoculation.
SEE: bacillary angiomatosis; Bartonella.
Patient Care: The patient is assessed for related symptoms and a history of cat contact. Prescribed cat scratch antigen skin testing is explained and administered. The patient is taught how to use hot compresses and hand le and dispose of contaminated dressings. He is also advised to report headache, sore throat, stiff neck, and continuing fever (esp. if accompanied by chills or night sweats) because these may be indicators of rare complications. The patient is referred for further immune system evaluation if immunodeficiency is suspected because immunocompromise puts the patient at high risk for a disseminated form of this disease.