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Cat-scratch disease: historic, clinical, and pathologic perspectives.
Laura W Lamps1, Margie A Scott
1Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock 72205, USA.
American Journal of Clinical Pathology
|August 10, 2004
Summary
Cat-scratch disease (CSD), caused by Bartonella henselae, is a common cause of chronic lymphadenopathy in children. This review covers its history, clinical signs, and diagnostic methods.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is the most frequent cause of chronic lymphadenopathy in pediatric patients.
- It is characterized by regional lymphadenitis following a cat scratch or bite, often with fever.
- The etiologic agent, Bartonella henselae, was identified decades after the disease was first described.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the history and epidemiology of CSD.
- To describe the common and atypical clinical and pathological manifestations.
- To discuss current diagnostic approaches for CSD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of historical and contemporary studies on Cat-scratch disease.
- Analysis of clinicopathologic features from case reports and series.
- Evaluation of diagnostic modalities, including serology and PCR.
Main Results:
- CSD presents typically with lymphadenopathy and an inoculation site, but atypical forms exist.
- Histopathology shows granulomatous inflammation with microabscesses.
- Atypical CSD manifestations can mimic other infections or neoplasms, leading to misdiagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Understanding CSD's diverse presentations is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Early recognition and appropriate diagnostic workup are essential, especially for atypical cases.
- Further research into diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy is warranted.