Cat Scratch Fever
Definition
Cat scratch disease is a disease caused by bartonella bacteria. It is believed to be transmitted by cat scratches and bites, or exposure to cat saliva.
Symptoms
A person who has had contact with a cat may show common symptoms, including:
* Bump (papule) or blister (pustule) at site of injury (usually the first sign)
* Fatigue
* Fever (in some patients)
* Headache
* Lymph node swelling near the scratch or bite
* Overall discomfort (malaise)
Less common symptoms may include:
* Draining lymph nodes'
* Enlarged spleen
* Loss of appetite
* Sore throat
* Weight loss
