Transverse myelitis associated with probable cat-scratch disease in a previously healthy pediatric patient

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Bartonella henselae is a bacterium commonly associated with cat-scratch disease.
• Cat-scratch disease typically presents with regional lymphadenopathy and constitutional symptoms.
• Transverse myelitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the spinal cord.

Observation:

• A pediatric patient presented with symptoms suggestive of transverse myelitis.
• The patient did not exhibit the characteristic adenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) of cat-scratch disease.
• Diagnosis of Bartonella henselae infection was confirmed through serological testing.

Findings:

• The case demonstrates a link between Bartonella henselae infection and transverse myelitis in a pediatric patient.
• Serological evidence confirmed the infection despite the absence of typical clinical signs.
• This highlights an atypical presentation of cat-scratch disease.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider Bartonella henselae infection in the differential diagnosis of transverse myelitis in children, even without adenopathy.
• Serological testing is essential for identifying Bartonella henselae as a potential cause of neurological disorders.
• This case broadens the understanding of the neurological manifestations of cat-scratch disease.