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Cat scratch disease with epidural extension while on antimicrobial treatment
Sabiha Hussain1, Mobeen H Rathore
1Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Florida, USA.
Pediatric Neurosurgery
|March 6, 2007
Summary
This study details the first pediatric case of an epidural abscess caused by Bartonella henselae, confirmed via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of abscess fluid. This finding highlights a rare presentation of Bartonella henselae infection in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Microbiology
Background:
- Epidural abscesses are serious infections typically caused by bacterial pathogens.
- Bartonella henselae is commonly associated with cat-scratch disease but can cause various systemic infections.
Observation:
- A 3-year-old male presented with fever and lower back pain.
- Imaging revealed a significant epidural abscess with associated osteomyelitis.
- Bartonella henselae infection was suspected based on serology.
Findings:
- The diagnosis was definitively confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of the epidural abscess fluid, identifying Bartonella henselae.
- The patient's serology showed elevated IgG titers, supporting Bartonella henselae infection.
Implications:
- This case expands the spectrum of neurological complications associated with Bartonella henselae.
- PCR confirmation of Bartonella henselae in abscess fluid is a valuable diagnostic tool.
- Highlights the importance of considering Bartonella henselae in pediatric patients with unexplained epidural abscesses.
