[Cat-scratch disease and disease caused by Bartonella (Rochalimaea)]

Area of Science:

• Bacteriology
• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology

Context:

• Cat scratch disease aetiology is controversial, with both Afipia felis and Bartonella henselae isolated from lymph nodes.
• Bartonella species cause various infections, including endocarditis, septicemia, bacillary angiomatosis, and visceral peliosis.
• Bartonella quintana, the agent of trench fever, was recently isolated from chronic adenopathy.

Purpose:

• To investigate the aetiology of cat scratch disease.
• To review the spectrum of Bartonella infections.
• To recommend optimal antibiotic treatment for Bartonella infections.

Summary:

• Both Afipia felis and Bartonella henselae are implicated in cat scratch disease.
• Bartonella infections present with diverse clinical manifestations depending on the species and host immune status.
• Diagnosis involves bacterial isolation, molecular identification, and serology.
• In vitro studies show both Afipia felis and Bartonella species are sensitive to aminoglycosides.

Impact:

• Clarifies the aetiology of cat scratch disease.
• Highlights the broad clinical spectrum of Bartonella infections.
• Recommends aminoglycosides as a key component of antibiotic regimens for cat scratch disease and Bartonella infections.