Cat scratch disease: clinical considerations for the pediatric dentist

Cat scratch disease (CSD), caused by Bartonella henselae, is a self-limited chronic lymphadenopathy. It is transmitted commonly by a scratch or bite from cats or kittens. Diagnosis of CSD is often difficult, as it masquerades as other causes of cervical lymphadenopathy or submandibular gland pathology. The purpose of this paper was to report a unique case of a 6-year old male who had close contact with a domestic dog and developed CSD which progressed to suppuration. After treatment with antibiotics was unsuccessful, the patient was taken to the operating room for definitive care. As CSD children may be seen in the pediatric dental office, on awareness of its symptomatology can prevent unnecessary dental intervention and facilitate early treatment.