A Rare Case Caused by Bartonella henselae in Northern Cyprus: Cat Scratch Disease

Abstract

Cat scratch disease (CSD) is a zoonotic infection caused by the bacteria of Bartonella henselae, which is transmitted to humans as a result of scratching or biting by cats, the source of the disease in nature. The disease is usually mild, but sometimes low fever and lymphadenopathy (LAP) at the site of the scracth can be seen. In our study, a 34-year-old female patient who applied to our hospital with bilateral groin pain and LAP in the inguinal region and was diagnosed with CSD is presented. Bartonella henselae immunoglobulin (Ig) G and Bartonella henselae IgM tests were performed with the indirect fluorescent antibody method on the patient, who had a kitten at home and had a scracthing history. Since both tests were positive and her history was compatible with CSD, 100 mg (2x1) dose of doxycycline was administered to our patient for 14 days and recovery was observed. While most CSD patients recover without treatment, some may develop complications. A good anamnesis and clinical examination in diagnosis can prevent unnecessary invasive procedures and high costs with many unnecessary laboratory tests. In conclusion, CSD should not be ignored in patients with regional LAP and a history of cat scracth.

Keywords

• bartonella henselae
• cat scratch disease
• north cyprus
• rare