Cat-scratch disease relapse in a kidney transplant recipient

Pediatr Transplant. 2007 Feb;11(1):105-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1399-3046.2006.00581.x.

Abstract

Cat-scratch disease, an infectious illness infrequently reported in kidney transplant patients, is caused by the organism Bartonella henselae and is transmitted through contact with cats or kittens. It is a self-limited disorder in the general pediatric population. Here we present a case of unsuspected cat-scratch disease in a pediatric kidney transplant patient who presented with fever and lymphadenopathy. Eight months after treatment with a short course of azithromycin, the patient developed a recurrence of cat-scratch disease. We emphasize that the evaluation of a young immunocompromised kidney transplant patient presenting with fever and lymphadenopathy should include unusual infections such as cat-scratch disease. We review the diagnosis and treatment of this uncommon infection in the organ transplant population.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Biopsy
  • Cat-Scratch Disease / diagnosis*
  • Cat-Scratch Disease / drug therapy*
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kidney Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Kidney Transplantation / pathology
  • Postoperative Complications / microbiology*
  • Recurrence
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents