Cat Scratch Disease
by jmmillerCat Scratch Disease is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. Children and young adults under 21 seem to be most susceptible to this infection, possibly because they are more likely to be bit, scratched, or licked by a cat.
Fleas carry the bacteria from one cat to another, where it lives in the cat’s saliva. Cats are basically carriers of the bacteria; they show no signs of infection and do not actually become sick themselves.
Once your child has been scratched or bitten by a cat, they may devlop a small bump or blister at the site. These are usually not painful. This is where the bacteria has entered the body.
Within a few weeks, the lymph nodes closest to the site of the bite or scratch will become infected and swell. The skin around the lymph node may swell and become red. An infected lymph node may actually feel warm to the tough, and drain pus.
Most children will experience a mild case of Cat Scratch Disease, with swollen lymph nodes being the only symptom. About one third of children will develop other symptoms, such as:
- low-grade fever
- loss of appetite
- rash
- fatigue or sleepiness
- headache
Rarely, the infection may become so severe that the spleen, liver, lungs, or bones are affected. In some cases, inflammation of the brain or seizures may occur. These symptoms usually do not cause any lasting damage.
If you suspect that your chid may have Cat Scratch disease, a trip to the doctor is in order. They may perform a blood test to see if the bacteria is present in yuor child’s body. In most cases, the disease will resolve itself without treatment. In some cases, extremely swollen lymph nodes may need to be drained by the doctor. Antibiotics can help to clear up secondary symptoms such as spleen or lung infection.
Generally, Tylenol will help to ease any pain that your child may be experiencing. Once the child has been diagnosed, call the doctor again if any new symptoms develop.
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