[A negleted bacteria with a case: Bartonella henselae]

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Bacteriology
• Public Health

Background:

• Cat scratch disease (CSD) is caused by Bartonella henselae, a facultative intracellular bacterium.
• CSD typically presents as lymphadenopathy but can lead to severe complications.
• Diagnosis in our country often relies on invasive methods rather than serological tests.

Observation:

• A 14-year-old presented with axillary lymphadenopathy (LAP) after a cat scratch.
• Antibody titers (IgM 1/384, IgG 1/2048) and PCR confirmed Bartonella henselae infection.
• Ultrasound revealed abscesses, while biopsy culture was negative.

Findings:

• This is the first case of Bartonella henselae in our country diagnosed via PCR.
• Elevated sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein indicated inflammation.
• Treatment involved a switch from azithromycin to doxycycline and rifampicin due to lack of regression.

Implications:

• The case underscores the need for increased awareness and improved diagnostic methods for CSD.
• Early and accurate diagnosis and treatment are crucial, especially in children and adolescents.
• Expanding access to serological and molecular diagnostic tests for Bartonella is recommended.