Medical Definition of Cat-scratch fever
1.
A self-limiting bacterial infection of the regional lymph nodes (lymphadenitis) caused by afipia felis, a gram-negative bacterium recently identified as bartonella henselae.
It usually arises one or more weeks following a feline scratch, with raised inflammatory nodules at the site of the scratch being the primary symptom. It results in tender and enlarged lymph glands above the site of injury.
A chronic benign adenopathy, especially in children and young adults, commonly associated with a recent cat scratch or bite and caused by bacteria including Bartonella henselae and Alipia felis; the lymphadenopathy usually resolves spontaneously within a period of several months, but complications involving central nervous system, liver, spleen, lung, and skin have been seen.
Synonym: benign inoculation lymphoreticulosis, benign inoculation reticulosis, cat-scratch fever, regional granulomatous lymphadenitis.
(05 Mar 2000)
Lexicographical Neighbors of Cat-scratch Fever
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