LQCL2411 - CMLE - Bartonella henselae - The Culprit of Cat-Scratch Disease-Bartonella henselae

Bartonella henselae - The Culprit of Cat-Scratch Disease

Pdf Summary

The document discusses Bartonella henselae infections associated with cat-scratch disease (CSD), focusing on epidemiology, clinical features, diagnostic methods, and treatment options. Bartonella henselae, a gram-negative bacterium, primarily infects humans through cat scratches or bites. Clinical symptoms of CSD include lymphadenopathy, fever, and fatigue, with potential atypical manifestations like bacillary angiomatosis. Laboratory diagnosis relies on serologic testing due to the challenge of culturing Bartonella species. Molecular tests like PCR are utilized as well. Antibiotic therapy, such as azithromycin, is recommended for immunocompromised patients or those with severe manifestations like endocarditis. The study includes a case of a 59-year-old woman with Bartonella henselae infection, where positive PCR and serology led to doxycycline therapy and subsequent resolution of symptoms. The seasonal incidence of CSD in the United States is highest from July to October, correlating with cat breeding and flea presence. Overall, CSD is self-resolving in many cases, but antibiotics are necessary in severe or prolonged infections, especially for immunocompromised individuals. Serologic testing is the primary diagnostic method for CSD, offering higher sensitivity compared to molecular tests, and confirming recent infection through IgG titers. Antibiotics like azithromycin can help alleviate symptoms of lymphadenopathy in CSD cases.

Keywords

Bartonella henselae infections

Cat-scratch disease

Epidemiology

Clinical features

Diagnostic methods

Treatment options

Gram-negative bacterium

Serologic testing

PCR

Antibiotic therapy