Cat Scratch Disease
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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