Related Experiment Videos
[Splenic abscess and cat-scratch disease]
L Valdesoiro Navarrete1, V Pineda Solas, C Martín Martín
1Servicio de Pediatría. Hospital de Sabadell. Barcelona. elisenda.valdesoiro@psdf.icnet.es
Abstract:
Cat-scratch disease is caused by a Gram-negative bacillus known as Bartonella henselae. This disease is usually benign and causes regional adenitis that does not require treatment. However, some patients develop more serious atypical forms of the disease including prolonged systemic illness with hepatic and splenic abscesses.A 14-year-old girl was admitted to hospital with a 12-day history of persistent high fever and abdominal pain. Ultrasonography and computerized tomography of the abdomen revealed splenic abscesses. These findings, together with an antecedent of cat exposure, led to the suspicion of cat-scratch disease, which was confirmed by serology. The girl was treated with intramuscular ceftriaxone and clinical evolution was favorable. Splenic cat-scratch disease is infrequent. Cat-scratch disease sometimes presents as fever of unknown origin and consequently this disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of prolonged fever. Although evolution is usually favorable, antibiotic therapy is recommended in systemic manifestations of cat-scratch disease.
Insights
Cat-scratch disease, caused by Bartonella henselae, can lead to splenic abscesses in rare cases. Prompt antibiotic treatment is crucial for systemic forms of this infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Cat-scratch disease is typically caused by Bartonella henselae, a Gram-negative bacillus.
- While usually benign, it can manifest in severe atypical forms, including hepatic and splenic abscesses.
Observation:
- A 14-year-old female presented with prolonged fever and abdominal pain.
- Imaging revealed splenic abscesses, prompting suspicion of cat-scratch disease.
- Serological confirmation followed a history of cat exposure.
Findings:
- The patient received intramuscular ceftriaxone, resulting in a favorable clinical outcome.
- Splenic involvement in cat-scratch disease is an infrequent presentation.
- Cat-scratch disease can present as fever of unknown origin, necessitating its inclusion in differential diagnoses.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering cat-scratch disease in prolonged fever cases.
- Antibiotic therapy is recommended for systemic manifestations of cat-scratch disease, even if typically benign.