Cat Scratch Disease

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 5, 2024.

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Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is an infection caused by bacteria in a cat's mouth. You can get CSD by being scratched, licked, or bitten by an infected cat. The germs usually spread after the cat licks its paws then scratches or bites human skin.

WHILE YOU ARE HERE:

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Medicines:

• Antibiotics treat a bacterial infection.
• Pain medicine may be given. Do not wait until the pain is severe before you ask for more medicine.
• Antipyretics help decrease a fever.

Tests:

• Blood tests or a tissue sample may show which bacteria are causing your infection.
• An x-ray, ultrasound, CT, or MRI may show if the infection has spread. You may be given contrast liquid to help the infection show up better in the pictures. Tell the healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast liquid. Do not enter the MRI room with anything metal. Metal can cause serious injury. Tell the healthcare provider if you have any metal in or on your body.

Treatment:

• Incision and drainage may be needed to drain fluid or pus from your lymph nodes.
• Surgery may be needed to remove all or part of your affected lymph nodes.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• rifampin
• Azithromycin Dose Pack
• Zithromax
• Doxy 100
• Doryx

RISKS:

If left untreated, the infection may spread to other parts of your body. CSD may affect your bones, lungs, heart, liver, and brain. People who have decreased ability to fight infection are at a higher risk for problems.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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