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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
03:46
A Simple Fecal Flotation Method for Diagnosing Zoonotic Nematodes Under Field and Laboratory Conditions
Published on: December 15, 2023
Cat scratch disease from a domestic dog
Tun-Chieh Chen1, Wei-Ru Lin, Po-Liang Lu
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Summary
Cat scratch disease (CSD) typically spreads from cats, but this report details a rare case transmitted by a dog scratch. This finding highlights potential zoonotic risks beyond feline contact.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Zoonotic Diseases
Background:
- Cat scratch disease (CSD) is a zoonotic illness caused by Bartonella henselae, commonly transmitted via cat scratches or bites.
- CSD typically presents as self-limited lymphadenopathy, fever, headache, and malaise.
Observation:
- A case of CSD occurred in a 23-year-old woman following a domestic dog scratch in Taiwan.
- The patient presented with cervical lymphadenopathy, mild fever, headache, and malaise three days post-scratch.
Findings:
- Bartonella henselae infection was confirmed serologically.
- Symptoms improved following azithromycin treatment, indicating effective therapeutic intervention.
Implications:
- This case represents the first reported instance of CSD transmitted by a dog scratch in Taiwan.
- It suggests that domestic dogs may pose a zoonotic risk for CSD, expanding awareness beyond feline reservoirs.
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