Cat Scratch Disease, also known as Cat Scratch Fever, is a condition caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. This bacteria triggers the inflammation of the lymph nodes, the appearance of bumps on the skin, irritation and fever.
Bartonella henselae can infect humans through bites or scratches from cats, either domestic or feral (especially kittens), or through contact with their saliva on an open wound.
Cat-scratch disease, or benign lymphoreticulosis as it is known in medical terms, is relatively rare and usually does not cause serious problems, disappearing on its own in most cases. You don't have to panic.
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Causes
The circuit through which this disease occurs is simple. Fleas are what infect animals with the bacteria that causes Cat Scratch Fever. Cats, especially kittens, can develop bacterial infections in their blood without showing symptoms, and can pass this infection to humans through their saliva coming into contact with an open wound. Therefore, cats that are kept in the apartment block or those outside that are dewormed, are unlikely to be able to transmit this disease.
It is assumed that the direct bite of a flea can also cause this disease, but this has not yet been scientifically proven.
Risk Factors in Cat Scratch Disease
Anyone who lives in close proximity to cats can be at risk of developing Cat Scratch disease, but this condition is more common in children under 15 years of age.
People diagnosed with HIV or who have a weakened immune system are at greater risk of developing serious complications of the disease.
Symptoms of Cat Scratch Disease
This disease is manifested by two specific signs: the swelling of the lymph nodes and the appearance of swellings or cysts under the skin (papules). Skin tags can appear as a rash or nodules and are usually located near the scratch or bite from the cat or contact with its saliva.
Signs and symptoms of the disease usually appear three to ten days after the cat scratch or wound occurs and may include:
- Papules (bumps or cysts under the skin)
- Rash
- Swollen and painful lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy)
- Fever
- Muscle, bone or joint pain
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
- Fatigue
Diagnostics
To diagnose Cat Scratch disease, the doctor will perform a physical exam to check for scratches or wounds on the skin and rashes, along with a complete patient history. Confirmation of contact with cats is often necessary for diagnosis.
The doctor will also feel the lymph nodes to assess if they are inflamed. Sometimes Cat Scratch disease can be diagnosed based on this exam alone, but most of the time, the doctor will also ask for a blood sample to test for the presence of the Bartonella henselae bacteria. Negative serological tests do not exclude the diagnosis of the disease.
In rare cases, when there is no clear evidence from blood tests, the specialist may opt to take a sample of fluid from the lymph nodes to confirm the diagnosis.
The symptoms of the disease can sometimes be similar to those of other conditions or medical problems, which is why the diagnosis must be made by a specialist doctor.
Treatment of Cat Scratch Disease
Because Cat Scratch disease usually heals on its own, treatment is recommended to relieve symptoms. The doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to fight the bacterial infection, but this is only recommended if the immune system is weakened or if the symptoms persist for several months.
Symptoms can be managed at home by administering antipyretic and anti-inflammatory treatments or by applying warm compresses to painful lymph nodes.
In the case of a more severe condition, where the lymph nodes are extremely inflamed and painful, the doctor may decide to drain these nodes to relieve symptoms.
Cat Scratch Fever is generally self-limiting and does not cause complications or long-term effects. However, in a small number of people, the disease can also affect other organs, causing more serious conditions.
The duration of symptoms in this disease depends on the main symptom of the condition, which is swelling of the lymph nodes, which can last between two and eight weeks and usually resolves on its own.
Complications of Cat Scratch Disease
Most healthy people do not develop complications from Cat Scratch disease. However, people with a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV/AIDS, diabetes or who are undergoing chemotherapy, can experience serious complications.
Although not a serious condition, Cat Scratch disease can cause some rare but possible complications, such as:
- Encephalopathy: A brain condition that can occur when bacteria spreads to the brain, which can lead to permanent damage or even death.
- Neuroretinitis: An inflammation of the optic nerve and retina, which can cause blurred vision and requires immediate treatment.
- Osteomyelitis: a bacterial infection of the bones that can cause bone damage, sometimes requiring amputation of affected limbs.
- Oculoglandular Parinaud Syndrome: A condition that can occur due to bacteria reaching the eye, sometimes requiring surgery.
- Bacillary Angiomatosis: A skin condition characterized by red, raised lesions surrounded by a scaly ring, which may also affect internal organs.
Prevention
If you have feline pets or work around cats, there are some simple steps you can take to prevent Cat Scratch Disease:
- Avoid bites or scratches from cats.
- Wash your hands after playing with, picking up or petting cats or kittens.
- Keep cats indoors to reduce the risk of flea bites.
- Do not pet or pick up stray cats or kittens.
- Do not let cats lick scratches or wounds.
- Consult your veterinarian for advice on how to protect your cat from fleas.
- If you have immune problems and want a pet, adopt a cat older than one year, not a kitten.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cat Scratch Disease is a condition caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, usually transmitted through cat scratches or bites. This disease can cause unpleasant symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, skin rashes and fever, but in most cases it heals on its own and does not cause serious complications.
Also read: Cats and pregnant women. Should the cat be removed?
To prevent Cat Scratch disease, it is important to avoid scratching or biting cats, washing hands after interacting with these animals, and protecting cats from fleas. People with a weakened immune system are more exposed to complications, and diagnosis and treatment should be carried out by a specialist doctor.
Reference:
- webmd.com (Cat-Scratch Fever)
- hopkinsmedicine.org (Cat Scratch Disease)
Understanding and following preventive measures, as well as access to appropriate medical care, are essential to managing and preventing the spread of Cat Scratch disease in the community.
