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[Bartonella henselae as the causative agent in cat-scratch disease: case report]
1Opća bolnica Zadar, Ulica Boze Pericića 5, 23000 Zadar.
Lijecnicki Vjesnik
|May 31, 2001
Summary
This case study identifies Bartonella henselae as the likely cause of cat scratch disease (CSD) in a Croatian student presenting with typical and atypical symptoms. Diagnostic confirmation involved serological testing and lymph node histopathology.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Cat scratch disease (CSD) is a bacterial infection typically transmitted by cats.
- Diagnosis can be challenging due to varied clinical presentations.
Observation:
- A 21-year-old student presented with typical CSD symptoms (skin lesion, lymphadenitis) and atypical symptoms (prolonged fever, algic syndrome).
- Laboratory parameters were within normal limits.
- Histopathology of lymph nodes revealed stellate caseating granulomas.
Findings:
- Immunofluorescence assay (IFA) detected seroconversion of IgG antibodies (negative to 1:512) and a rise in IgM antibodies (1:160 to >1:320) against Bartonella henselae in paired sera.
- Bartonella henselae was identified as the probable etiologic agent.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of serological testing and histopathology in diagnosing CSD, especially with atypical presentations.
- Understanding the role of Bartonella henselae in CSD is crucial for effective patient management and public health awareness.