Reader has cat-scratch fever

DEAR DR. GOTT: I have been diagnosed with cat-scratch fever. Could you explain the disease and its side effects? How long will it last, and what treatment is available?

DEAR READER: Cat-scratch disease (CSD) is the result of a bacterial infection known as Bartonella henselae. Surprisingly, about 40 percent of all cats carry the bacteria in their saliva at some point in their lives, with kittens being more likely to be infected than adult cats; however, neither commonly show any signs of illness.

Most people contract CSD through bites and scratches; however, it is also possible to contract it by petting an infected feline and then rubbing your eyes.

Symptoms include fever, nausea, chills, headache, poor appetite, fatigue, vomiting and inflammation of the lymph nodes.

People with a compromised immune system such as HIV/AIDS, organ-transplant patients and those receiving chemotherapy are at greater risk of developing abnormal blood-vessel growths that resemble tumors after becoming infected.

These masses can cause severe organ inflammation and lead to a host of other issues. In the healthy person, however, CSD should resolve on its own without treatment. If lymph-node involvement remains, a patient might require prescription antibiotics for up to a month.

The key is to have your physician make a correct diagnosis, receive antibiotics if appropriate, and take precautions at home by preventing all cats from licking a scratch or open wound on your body; avoiding rough play that might induce the cat to scratch; and washing your hands after playing with the animal. By all means, enjoy your cat, but take precautions to ensure your good health.

Dr. Peter H. Gott is a retired physician and the author of several books, including "Live Longer, Live Better," "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet" and "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Cookbook," which are available at most bookstores or online. His website is www.AskDrGottMD.com. Copyright 2010, United Feature Syndicate Inc.