Bilateral chronic peripheral ulcerative keratitis secondary to cat-scratch disease

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is a common zoonotic infection typically associated with *Bartonella henselae*.
• Ocular manifestations of CSD, such as Parinaud oculoglandular syndrome, are well-documented.
• Peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK) is a severe inflammatory condition affecting the cornea.

Observation:

• A 66-year-old woman presented with Perinaud oculoglandular syndrome in one eye.
• She later developed recurrent bilateral chronic peripheral ulcerative keratitis.
• Corneal findings included diffuse thinning, neovascularization, and conjunctivalization.

Findings:

• This case demonstrates a sequential presentation of bilateral chronic PUK following CSD.
• The PUK was characterized by significant peripheral corneal changes.

Implications:

• CSD should be considered in the differential diagnosis of bilateral chronic PUK.
• Early recognition and management of CSD may prevent severe ocular complications.
• This case highlights the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach in complex ocular inflammatory conditions.