Difference between revisions of "Cat scratch disease"
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| − | '''Cat scratch disease''' (CSD) is an illness caused by the bacterium ''Bartonella henselae''. Almost half of all [[cat]]s carry the infection at some point. The infection does not make cats sick. However, the scratch or bite of an infected cat can cause symptoms in people, including | + | '''Cat scratch disease''' (CSD) is an illness caused by the bacterium ''Bartonella henselae''. Almost half of all [[cat]]s carry the infection at some point. The infection does not make cats sick. However, the scratch or bite of an infected cat can cause symptoms in people, including: |
* Swollen [[lymph nodes]], especially around the head, neck and upper limbs | * Swollen [[lymph nodes]], especially around the head, neck and upper limbs | ||
Revision as of 01:41, October 5, 2008
Cat scratch disease (CSD) is an illness caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. Almost half of all cats carry the infection at some point. The infection does not make cats sick. However, the scratch or bite of an infected cat can cause symptoms in people, including:
- Swollen lymph nodes, especially around the head, neck and upper limbs
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Poor appetite
For people with weak immune systems, CSD may cause more serious problems. The best way to avoid CSD is to avoid rough play with cats that could lead to scratches or bites.[1]