Cat-scratch disease

**Definition:** A disease commonly caused by an infection with the gram-negative bacteria Bartonella henselae. This disease is characterised by regional lymphadenopathy, or fever. Transmission is commonly from the scratch or bite of a cat infested with fleas infected with Bartonella henselae.

**Long definition:** Cat scratch disease is caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. The disease is spread through contact with an infected cat (a bite or scratch), or contact with cat saliva on broken skin or the white of the eye. About 2 - 3 weeks after becoming infected, lymph node swelling occurs near the site of the scratch or bite. Occasionally, an infected lymph node may form a draining fistula. Cat scratch disease is a common cause of chronic swollen lymph nodes in children.

**Inclusions:** - Cat-scratch fever - Rochalimaea henselae infection