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Unusual presentation of cat scratch disease: case report
Sevgi Aslan Tuncay1, Gulsen Akkoc2, Seyhan Yilmaz1
1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Marmara University, Fevzi Cakmak, Muhsin Yazicioglu St, No:10, Floor: 6, Istanbul, Turkey.
Summary
Cat scratch disease (CSD), caused by Bartonella henselae, often presents with vague symptoms. This case highlights unusual hepatosplenic and paravertebral involvement in CSD, complicating diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Clinical Case Reports
Background:
- Cat scratch disease (CSD) is a bacterial infection transmitted by Bartonella henselae.
- It typically manifests with non-specific symptoms including lymphadenopathy, fever, and fatigue.
- Disseminated forms can lead to severe complications affecting multiple organ systems.
Observation:
- This report details a case of CSD with an atypical clinical presentation.
- The patient exhibited unusual hepatosplenic and paravertebral involvement.
- Diagnosis was challenging due to the non-specific and varied symptoms.
Findings:
- Bartonella henselae infection can present with rare and severe manifestations beyond typical lymphadenopathy.
- Hepatosplenic and paravertebral involvement represent significant, albeit uncommon, complications of CSD.
- The case underscores the diagnostic difficulties associated with atypical CSD presentations.
Implications:
- Recognizing atypical CSD presentations is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
- This case expands the spectrum of known clinical manifestations of Bartonella henselae infections.
- Further research into the pathogenesis of disseminated CSD may improve treatment strategies.

