Cat scratch fever or cat scratch disease is basically a bacterial condition that can develop if an individual is scratched or bitten by a cat that carries a particular kind of bacteria. Even though the condition is not usually dangerous if it affects healthy individuals, it can cause complications if it develops among those who have underlying health problems.
What is cat scratch disease?
Cat scratch disease can develop if the individual has been scratched or bitten by a cat that is a carrier of the Bartonella henselae bacteria. A certain percentage of cats are carriers of these bacteria at some point in their lives. The cats that carry the bacteria do not show any signs of illness and it is impossible to determine who the carriers are. An individual can also acquire the disease if a cat transfers the bacteria through its saliva and to its fur. Once the cat is touched, it can affect the individual.
Symptoms of cat scratch disease
The symptoms of cat scratch disease include a mild infection at the site of the bite or scratch, fever, swelling of the lymph nodes, headache, and fatigue and diminished appetite. It usually takes several days up to weeks for the symptoms to develop after the bacteria have been transmitted.
Individuals who are currently undergoing chemotherapy, AIDS, diabetes or other immune system problems at the time they acquire cat scratch disease are likely to develop complications. The common complications that can develop include bacillary angiomatosis which is a disease characterized by purple-colored skin lesions due to the increased development of the blood vessels and Parinaud’s oculolandular syndrome which is an eye condition that have symptoms similar to pink eye.
As for healthy individuals, the condition can disappear on its own. It is still important to clean the cat scratch or bite in order to prevent infection from occurring. By enrolling in a first aid course, you can learn the appropriate way to handle related wounds.
Diagnosing cat scratch disease
If the individual has been scratched or bitten by a cat and the distinctive signs of the condition are present, the doctor can make a diagnosis based on the symptoms that manifest. In most cases, a blood test is requested in order to make a final diagnosis.
Treatment for cat scratch disease
If the condition does not disappear on its own, the individual might be prescribed with antibiotics in order to clear up the bacteria from the body. In some cases, the lymph nodes might become septic and they have to be emptied. Take note that draining is done through the insertion of a needle into the affected lymph node and pump out the infected fluid.
How to prevent cat scratch disease
You can minimize the risk for acquiring cat scratch disease by avoiding rough play with cats or provoking them. Always bear in mind that younger cats are more prone to the bacteria and you have to be careful when playing with kittens.