Analysis index

Antibody detection: 1 ml serum, lymph node biopsy in sodium chloride

DNA demonstration: 1 – 2 ml EDTA blood

IFT-IgG: < 1:320

Titer IFT-IgM: < 1:100

Titer PCR: negative

Cat scratch disease in immunocompetent persons,

bacillary angiomatosis in immunosuppressed patients

Infection with Bartonella henselae can cause two completely different pathological reactions, depending on the immune status of the patient:

1. Cat scratch disease: Most commonly, children become infected through contact with cats. The vector of Bartonella henselae is the cat flea. Therefore, attention should be made as to the presence of fleas and de-fleaing undertaken if necessary. Transmission is via cats scratching and licking or via objects with which the cat had contact shortly before. Often, a pustule develops on the hands with painful axillary lymphadenopathy. In immunocompetent persons, these lesions usually heal spontaneously. Supporting antibiotics may be given.
2. Bacillary angiomatosis: Angio proliferative changes to the skin and in a variety of organs, especially in immunosuppressed patients. The following areas may be affected: Mucous membrane of the mouth, genitalia, anus, eye or in the bone, brain etc. Clinical progress is varied. In immunosuppressed patients, there will be a severe course of illness with often deadly result.

Differential diagnosis: Kaposi syndrome