Diagnosis Based on History, Not Examination

Abstract

Cat scratch disease (CSD), caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, is usually self-limiting, presenting with low-grade fever and tender lymphadenopathy. With delayed diagnosis or reactivation of latent disease, CSD is associated with severe debilitating symptoms. We are presenting a patient who proved adiagnostic challenge, before being found to have reactivation of Bartonella henselae, requiring three-months IV Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole andHydrocortisone.