Cat scratch fever is a bacterial infection you can get from being scratched or bitten by a cat or kitten, or sometimes a dog. This usually goes away without treatment, but can become a potentially serious condition that requires care from your doctor.
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. If you remember that you were bitten or scratched by a cat, your doctor will probably be able to diagnose the disease based on the fact that you were bitten or scratched, then got painful, swollen lymph nodes. Tests may include:
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
RESOURCES:
Cat Scratch Disease
National Center for Infectious Diseases
http://www.cdc.gov
Winn Feline Foundation
http://www.winnfelinehealth.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
BC Health Guide
British Columbia Ministry of Health
http://www.bchealthguide.org
Cat Scratch Fever
Animal Healthcare Information and Advice from Canadian Veterinarians (animalhealthcare.ca)
http://www.animalhealthcare.ca
References:
Chomel BB. Cat-scratch disease. Rev Sci Tech . 2000;19(1):136-50.
Conrad DA. Treatment of cat-scratch disease. Curr Opin Pediatr . 2001;13(1):56-9.
Lamps LW, Scott MA. Cat-scratch disease: historic, clinical, and pathologic perspectives. Am J Clin Pathol . 2004;121 Suppl:S71-80.
Windsor JJ. Cat-scratch disease: epidemiology, aetiology, and treatment. Br J Biomed Sci . 2001;58(2):101-10.
Last reviewed November 2008 by David L. Horn, MD, FACP
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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