What is the infectious agent that causes cat-scratch disease?
Cat-scratch disease is caused by Bartonella henselae, a bacterium. Where is cat-scratch disease found? The bacterium that causes cat-scratch disease is found in all parts of the world. The bacterium is carried by cats and kittens. Infected animals do not become sick. How is cat-scratch disease spread? The disease is spread by a scratch or bite from a cat, most often a kitten. The infection spreads from the site of the scratch or bite to the lymph glands. Cats that spread the infection do not look sick. The infection is not spread from person to person. What are the signs and symptoms of cat-scratch disease? A blister or sore, with or without pus or fluid, often shows up on the skin at the place where the bacteria entered the body. Within 2 weeks, the lymph glands nearby usually become swollen and tender. In most children and adolescents, swollen glands are the main symptom. Adults often have other symptoms such as low fever, tiredness, headache, and loss of appetite. About 5% of person
