ICD-10: A28.1

Cat-scratch disease, classified under the ICD-10-CM code A28.1, is primarily associated with the infection caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, which is transmitted through scratches or bites from infected cats. This condition is recognized by various alternative names and related terms that reflect its clinical presentation and transmission methods. Below are some of the most common alternative names and related terms associated with cat-scratch disease.

Alternative Names for Cat-Scratch Disease

1. Bartonellosis: This term refers to infections caused by the Bartonella species, including Bartonella henselae, which is the primary causative agent of cat-scratch disease[1].

2. Cat Scratch Fever: A colloquial term often used to describe the disease, emphasizing the fever that can accompany the infection[2].

3. Feline Scratch Disease: This name highlights the role of cats in the transmission of the disease, as it is primarily contracted through scratches or bites from infected felines[3].

4. Cat Scratch Lymphadenitis: This term refers to the lymph node swelling that often occurs in individuals infected with Bartonella henselae, which is a hallmark symptom of cat-scratch disease[4].

5. Feline Bacterial Infection: A broader term that encompasses various bacterial infections that can be transmitted from cats to humans, including cat-scratch disease[5].

Related Terms

1. Zoonotic Disease: Cat-scratch disease is classified as a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals (in this case, cats) to humans[6].

2. Lymphadenopathy: This medical term describes the swelling of lymph nodes, which is a common symptom of cat-scratch disease[7].

3. Bartonella Infection: A general term that can refer to any infection caused by the Bartonella genus, including cat-scratch disease and other related conditions[8].

4. Infectious Disease: Cat-scratch disease falls under the category of infectious diseases, which are caused by pathogenic microorganisms[9].

5. Pediatric Infection: Cat-scratch disease is particularly noted in pediatric populations, as children are more likely to be scratched by cats and may exhibit more pronounced symptoms[10].

Conclusion

Understanding the alternative names and related terms for cat-scratch disease can enhance communication among healthcare professionals and improve patient education. Recognizing these terms is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment, as well as for raising awareness about the disease's transmission and prevention. If you have further questions or need more specific information, feel free to ask!

Cat Scratch Disease (CSD), classified under ICD-10 code A28.1, is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, primarily transmitted through scratches or bites from infected cats. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

Clinical Presentation

Signs and Symptoms

The clinical presentation of Cat Scratch Disease can vary significantly among patients, but common signs and symptoms include:

• Lymphadenopathy: The most characteristic feature of CSD is the enlargement of lymph nodes, particularly those near the site of the scratch or bite. This lymphadenopathy can be unilateral or bilateral and may persist for several weeks to months[1][2].

• Fever: Patients often experience low-grade fever, which can be intermittent. Fever may accompany other systemic symptoms, such as malaise and fatigue[3].

• Fatigue and Malaise: General feelings of tiredness and discomfort are frequently reported, contributing to the overall clinical picture of the disease[4].

• Skin Lesions: Some patients may develop papules or pustules at the site of the scratch or bite, which can be mistaken for other dermatological conditions[5].

• Headache: Headaches are also common and can vary in intensity[6].

• Other Symptoms: In some cases, patients may experience abdominal pain, joint pain, or even ocular symptoms such as conjunctivitis or retinitis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals[7].

Patient Characteristics

CSD predominantly affects children and young adults, although it can occur in individuals of any age. Key patient characteristics include:

• Age: The disease is most commonly seen in children aged 5 to 14 years, likely due to higher rates of cat exposure and play[8].

• Exposure History: A history of contact with cats, particularly kittens, is a significant risk factor. Cats that are less than one year old are more likely to carry Bartonella henselae[9].

• Immunocompetence: While CSD can affect immunocompetent individuals, those who are immunocompromised (e.g., due to HIV/AIDS, cancer, or organ transplantation) may experience more severe manifestations of the disease, including systemic complications[10].

• Geographic Distribution: CSD is more prevalent in certain geographic areas, particularly in regions with higher cat populations and warmer climates, which may influence the incidence of the disease[11].

Conclusion

Cat Scratch Disease is characterized by a range of clinical presentations, primarily involving lymphadenopathy, fever, and fatigue, with a notable prevalence in children and young adults. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with CSD is essential for healthcare providers to facilitate timely diagnosis and appropriate management. Awareness of the disease's transmission through cat scratches or bites can also help in preventive measures, particularly in households with pets.

Cat-scratch disease (CSD), classified under ICD-10-CM code A28.1, is a bacterial infection caused primarily by Bartonella henselae, which is transmitted through scratches or bites from infected cats, particularly kittens. This zoonotic disease is most commonly seen in children and young adults, although it can affect individuals of any age.

Clinical Presentation

Symptoms

The clinical presentation of cat-scratch disease can vary significantly among individuals, but common symptoms include:

• Lymphadenopathy: The most characteristic feature of CSD is the swelling of lymph nodes, particularly those near the site of the scratch or bite. This lymphadenopathy can be unilateral or bilateral and may persist for several weeks to months[5].
• Fever: Patients often experience mild to moderate fever, which can be intermittent[6].
• Fatigue: General malaise and fatigue are frequently reported, contributing to the overall discomfort of the patient[6].
• Headaches: Some individuals may experience headaches, which can accompany other systemic symptoms[6].
• Rash: A rash may develop in some cases, although it is not universally present[6].

Complications

While most cases of cat-scratch disease are self-limiting, some patients may experience complications, particularly those with weakened immune systems. Potential complications include:

• Ocular Issues: In rare cases, CSD can lead to ocular complications such as parinaud oculoglandular syndrome, which involves conjunctivitis and lymphadenopathy[7].
• Neurological Manifestations: Although uncommon, neurological complications such as encephalitis or seizures can occur, particularly in immunocompromised individuals[7].
• Hepatosplenic Disease: In severe cases, the infection can affect the liver and spleen, leading to hepatosplenomegaly[7].

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cat-scratch disease is primarily clinical, based on the history of exposure to cats and the characteristic symptoms. Serological tests can confirm the presence of antibodies against Bartonella henselae, although these tests may not be necessary in typical cases. In some instances, a biopsy of affected lymph nodes may be performed to identify the bacteria directly[6][7].

Treatment

Most cases of cat-scratch disease resolve without specific treatment. Supportive care, including pain management and symptomatic relief, is often sufficient. However, in cases with severe symptoms or complications, antibiotics such as azithromycin or rifampin may be prescribed[6][7].

Conclusion

Cat-scratch disease, coded as A28.1 in the ICD-10-CM, is a generally mild but occasionally serious infection that primarily affects children and young adults. Awareness of its clinical presentation, potential complications, and management strategies is essential for healthcare providers to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect exposure to an infected cat and experience symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention for appropriate evaluation and care.

Cat-scratch disease (CSD), classified under ICD-10 code A28.1, is primarily caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, which is transmitted through scratches or bites from infected cats. The diagnosis of CSD involves a combination of clinical evaluation, patient history, and laboratory tests. Below are the key criteria used for diagnosing cat-scratch disease:

Clinical Presentation

1. History of Exposure: A significant criterion for diagnosis is a history of exposure to cats, particularly if the patient has been scratched or bitten by a cat within the past few weeks. This exposure is crucial as it establishes a potential source of infection[1].

2. Symptoms: Patients typically present with:
   - Lymphadenopathy: Swelling of lymph nodes, often near the site of the scratch or bite, is a hallmark symptom. This can occur several weeks after exposure[2].
   - Fever: Low-grade fever is common, although some patients may experience higher temperatures[3].
   - Fatigue and malaise: General feelings of unwellness and tiredness are frequently reported[4].
   - Headaches: Some patients may experience headaches as part of their symptomatology[5].

Laboratory Tests

1. Serological Testing: The diagnosis can be supported by serological tests that detect antibodies against Bartonella henselae. The presence of IgG antibodies indicates past infection, while IgM antibodies suggest a more recent infection[6].

2. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): PCR testing can be performed on blood or lymph node aspirates to detect the DNA of Bartonella henselae, providing a more definitive diagnosis[7].

3. Histopathological Examination: In some cases, a biopsy of the affected lymph node may be performed, revealing granulomatous inflammation typical of CSD[8].

Differential Diagnosis

It is essential to differentiate CSD from other conditions that may present with similar symptoms, such as:
- Other infectious diseases: Conditions like tuberculosis, lymphoma, or other viral infections can mimic CSD symptoms[9].
- Non-infectious causes: Autoimmune diseases or malignancies may also present with lymphadenopathy and fever, necessitating careful evaluation[10].

Conclusion

In summary, the diagnosis of cat-scratch disease (ICD-10 code A28.1) relies on a combination of clinical history, symptomatology, and laboratory findings. A thorough assessment is crucial to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes of the symptoms. If you suspect cat-scratch disease, consulting a healthcare professional for appropriate testing and evaluation is recommended.

Cat Scratch Disease (CSD), classified under ICD-10 code A28.1, is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, typically transmitted through scratches or bites from infected cats. Understanding the standard treatment approaches for this condition is essential for effective management and recovery.

Overview of Cat Scratch Disease

CSD primarily affects children and young adults, presenting with symptoms such as fever, lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes), and fatigue. In some cases, it can lead to more severe complications, including ocular issues or systemic infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals[1].

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Symptomatic Management

For most patients, especially those with mild symptoms, treatment focuses on symptomatic relief. This includes:

• Pain Management: Over-the-counter analgesics such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate pain and reduce fever[1].
• Hydration: Ensuring adequate fluid intake is crucial, particularly if the patient experiences fever or malaise.

2. Antibiotic Therapy

While many cases of CSD resolve spontaneously without the need for antibiotics, certain situations warrant their use:

• Severe Cases: Antibiotics may be prescribed for patients with severe symptoms, prolonged illness, or those at risk of complications. Commonly used antibiotics include:
• Azithromycin: Often the first choice due to its effectiveness against Bartonella henselae.
• Rifampin: Sometimes used in combination with azithromycin for more severe cases[1].
• Doxycycline: Another option, particularly for patients who can tolerate tetracyclines[1].

3. Monitoring and Follow-Up

Patients diagnosed with CSD should be monitored for the resolution of symptoms and any potential complications. Follow-up appointments may be necessary to assess recovery and manage any lingering effects, such as persistent lymphadenopathy or fatigue[1].

4. Preventive Measures

Preventing CSD involves educating pet owners about safe interactions with cats, such as:

• Avoiding rough play that could lead to scratches or bites.
• Keeping cats indoors to reduce exposure to potential carriers of Bartonella henselae.
• Regular veterinary check-ups for pets to ensure they are healthy and free from infections[1].

Conclusion

In summary, the treatment of Cat Scratch Disease primarily involves symptomatic management, with antibiotics reserved for more severe cases or at-risk individuals. Awareness and preventive measures are crucial in reducing the incidence of this disease. For patients experiencing persistent or severe symptoms, timely medical intervention is essential to prevent complications and ensure a full recovery. If you suspect CSD, consulting a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan is recommended.