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Cat-scratch disease
Ana Luiza Biancardi1, Andre Luiz Land Curi
1Fundação Oswaldo Cruz , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil.
Insights
Bartonella henselae causes cat scratch disease (CSD), presenting with systemic and ocular symptoms. Early diagnosis via clinical signs and serology is crucial for timely antibiotic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Bartonella are Gram-negative bacteria, often linked to cat scratch disease (CSD).
- Infections can manifest with localized or systemic symptoms, affecting erythrocytes or endothelial cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the systemic and ocular manifestations of Bartonella infection.
- To outline diagnostic approaches and treatment strategies for Bartonella infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of Bartonella infection studies.
Main Results:
- Ocular manifestations occur in 5-10% of CSD patients.
- Diagnosis relies on clinical presentation and laboratory tests.
- Treatment decisions consider infection severity, host immunity, and patient age.
Conclusions:
- Suspect Bartonella henselae in cases of follicular conjunctivitis, regional lymphadenopathy, neuroretinitis, or retinal infiltrates.
- Serological tests are key for confirming clinical suspicion.
Purpose:
To discuss the systemic and ocular manifestations, diagnosis and treatment of Bartonella infection.
Method:
Review of the literature.
Results:
Bartonella are facultative intracellular Gram-negative rods that infect the erythrocytes or endothelial cells and are related to cat scratch disease (CSD). Bartonella henselae infection has localized or systemic features; the ocular diseases related to Bartonella affect 5--10% of patients with CSD. The diagnosis is based on clinical findings and laboratory tests. The indication of antibiotic therapy depends on the manifestation of the Bartonella infection, the host immunity and the patient's age.
Conclusion:
Physicians should look for Bartonella henselae in cases of follicular conjuntivitis and regional limphadenopathy, neuroretinitis or retinal infiltrates; currently, serological tests can confirm the clinical suspicion of this infection.
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