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Cat-scratch disease osteomyelitis
1Department of Radiology, St Elisabeth Hospital, De Frélaan, 206, 1180 Brussels, Belgium. Sam.Heye@uz.kuleuven.ac.be
Skeletal Radiology
|January 15, 2003
Summary
Cat-scratch disease, typically affecting lymph nodes, can rarely cause rib osteomyelitis and abscess. Prompt diagnosis using biopsy, serology, and PCR ensures excellent prognosis and full recovery.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is a bacterial infection usually caused by Bartonella henselae.
- It commonly presents with lymphadenopathy but can have atypical manifestations.
Observation:
- A patient presented with osteomyelitis of a rib and an adjacent abscess.
- Radiographic imaging revealed an osteolytic lesion with a contiguous soft tissue mass.
Findings:
- Diagnosis was confirmed through a combination of biopsy, serological testing, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
- These methods are crucial for identifying Bartonella henselae in unusual presentations.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering CSD in the differential diagnosis of rib osteomyelitis.
- Early and accurate diagnosis leads to effective treatment and complete patient recovery.