Cat scratch disease also known as Cat scratch fever occurs when someone gets bitten, scratched, or licked by cat that carries a type of bacteria called Bartonella henselae. This bacteria is usually harmless but can cause illness in some cases.
For most healthy individuals, cat scratch disease isn’t serious and doesn’t lead to major health issues. However, it can be more dangerous for individuals with weak immune systems, such as those with chronic illnesses or on certain medications.
It’s important to recognize the signs of cat scratch disease early so that treatment can begin quickly. Symptoms can include swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, and fever. By being aware of these signs and seeking prompt medical care, you can help ensure a quicker recovery and avoid more serious complications.
Causes
Cat scratch fever happens when a person is scratched or bitten by a cat that has the bacteria Bartonella henselae also known as B. henselae. These bacteria are found in the saliva of cats and can enter the body through any open cuts or broken skin.
The risk of getting cat scratch fever is higher in the winter and fall months. This is because individuals and their cats spend more time indoors, leading to more opportunities for rough play. Children are more possibly to get cat scratch fever than adults, especially if they play roughly with cats and get scratched.
Symptoms
This fever typically does not cause symptoms immediately after exposure. In the initial days, the bacteria Bartonella henselae are increasing within the body without showing obvious signs.
Around two weeks after the infection begins, an individual may notice a blister or small bump at the site where the scratch or bite occurred. This area is most commonly found on the hands, arms, head, or scalp. Healthcare providers refer to this as a vaccination lesion. However, in many cases, this lesion may not appear, or it might be too subtle to notice.
After some weeks, the lymph nodes around the site of the scratch or bite may become sensitive or swollen. Nodes of lymph are important for filtrating bacteria and other substances and for producing cells of immune system. They typically feel like round, small, oval, or spongy bumps. If the scratch or bite was on your arm, the lymph nodes under your arm or near your elbow might feel sore or tender.
In some instances, the swollen lymph nodes can become quite large, up to 2 inches throughout. They can feel warm to the meet, be fluid-contained, or show red. These swollen nodes can remain enlarged for two to three weeks.
For many individuals, swollen nodes of lymph are the primary symptom of cat scratch fever. But the other symptoms may also occur, including anorexia, lower stomach pain, a mild fever (usually not exceeding 102°F), headache, tiredness, rash, joint pain, and a painful throat.
It is important to see a healthcare provider if a scratch or bite continues to enlarge after two days. Early medical attention can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Complications
Cat scratch disease generally does not lead to severe symptoms. However, in some cases, individuals may get a high fever that persists over time. There is also a risk of more serious infections affecting the joints, bones, lungs, liver, or spleen.
As stated by the CDC and Prevention, most symptoms are more likely to occur in young children, especially those aged five years and below.
While cat scratch disease typically does not require emergency medical care, there are situations where immediate attention is necessary. An individual should contact their healthcare provider right away if they feel any of the following signs:
- A cat scratch or bite that is not relieving or appears to be worsening
- An expanding red part over the scratch or bite
- A high temperature of lasting more than 48 hours after the scratch or bite
- Serious pain
Prompt medical consultation can help address these issues and prevent further complications.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing cat scratch disease can be challenging because its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses. First, a healthcare provider will ask about your medical history and if you’ve recently been around a cat.
The healthcare provider will then test the area where you were scratched or bitten and check for swollen nodes of lymph, which are a common symptom of the infection.
In most cases, this examination is enough to diagnose cat scratch disease. However, if needed, the healthcare provider might suggest additional tests to eliminate other conditions.
One common test involves taking a blood sample and sending it to a laboratory. This can help identify the specific bacteria causing the illness. There are also blood tests designed specifically to detect cat scratch fever.
Getting an accurate diagnosis is important to ensure you receive the right treatment and address any other potential health issues.
Treatment
Many episodes of cat scratch disease are light, and healthcare providers often do not prescribe specific treatments. For many people, the symptoms will improve on their own. However, if the signs are moderate to serious, a healthcare provider might recommend antibiotics to help treat the infection.
For at-home care, it’s important to get plenty of rest. If the nodes of lymph are painful or very sensitive, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage the discomfort.
Children who have cat scratch disease can usually persist with their normal activities. However, they should keep away putting pressure or hitting on the swollen lymph nodes to prevent further discomfort.
Once someone has had cat scratch disease, they are not likely to get it again. This is because the body usually develops immunity to the bacteria after the first infection.
Prevention
Cats may spread cat scratch disease to humans, but it is rare for humans to pass the infection to another. If one family person has cat scratch disease, it’s important for others to be cautious around the family cat to avoid the chance of getting infected as well.
Having a cat with cat scratch disease doesn’t necessarily mean that a family must throw away their pet. But there are several steps you can take to reduce cat scratch disease:
- Take on a cat that is older than one year if someone in the household has a weakened immune system. Kittens are more likely to carry the bacteria that cause the infection.
- Reduce rough play with kittens or cats, as this can increase the chance of bites and scratches.
- Never let a cat lick open areas or wounds of skin, as this can introduce bacteria into the body.
- Refrain from petting feral or stray cats, which are more possibly to carry diseases.
- Always sanitize your hands and other areas that come into contact with cat after playing with them.
Fleas can spread the disease from one cat to other cats, so preventing flea infestations is also crucial. To keep fleas under control:
- clean your home frequently to remove fleas and their eggs.
- Utilize flea prevention methods, like treatments, to protect against flea bites.
- Call a pest control if you notice a significant flea problem in your home.
Taking these preventive measures can help decrease the risk of cat scratch disease and maintain a healthy environment for both your family and your pets.
Summary
Cat scratch disease, caused by the Bartonella henselae bacteria from a cat’s saliva, usually has mild symptoms but can cause severe issues in some cases. Diagnosis involves a medical history review, physical examination, and possibly blood tests. Most cases are self-limiting, but antibiotics may be prescribed for severe symptoms, and over-the-counter pain relievers can manage discomfort.
Prevention includes avoiding rough play, not allowing cats to lick open wounds, and maintaining good hygiene. Flea control is also important to prevent the spread of the infection. If a scratch or bite worsens or symptoms persist, seek medical advice promptly.
