Cat-scratch disease: considerations for dentistry.
BACKGROUND
Cat-scratch disease, or CSD, results from inoculation of the gram-negative bacillus Bartonella henselae via a cat's scratch. A regional lymphadenitis, which usually is cervical, develops and may progress to suppuration. It is necessary to differentiate CSD from other lymphadenopathies.


METHODS
A patient who had close contact with a cat subsequently developed a localized, suppurative cervical lymphadenitis. As B. henselae was identified in 1992, the authors were able to confirm the existence of CSD serologically. Surgical drainage resulted in a successful resolution of the disease process.


CONCLUSIONS
As patients with CSD may be seen in the dental office, an awareness of its symptomatology can prevent unnecessary dental intervention and facilitate early treatment.
Mandel
L
L
Salivary Gland Center, Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery, New York, NY 10032, USA.
Surattanont
F
F
Miremadi
R
R
D000907:Antibodies, Bacterial / Q000097:blood; D018416:Bartonella henselae / Q000276:immunology; D002372:Cat-Scratch Disease / Q000175:diagnosis*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008199:Lymphadenitis / Q000175:diagnosis; D012793:Sialadenitis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000382:microbiology; D013364:Submandibular Gland Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000382:microbiology
D000907:Antibodies, Bacterial