Tender, swollen lumps in the armpit, groin or neck may develop after a cat scratch. These symptoms, when they persist, are often caused by cat scratch disease. The disease most often occurs in children, particularly in the warmer months.
Causes of Cat Scratch Fever
Infection with Bartonella hemselae is the cause of catch scratch fever. It is usually transmitted through a cat scratch. It is not clear whether infected fleas can spread the disease to humans, although they may transmit the disease between cats.
Signs and Symptoms of Cat Scratch Fever
A pus filled pimple develops in the area of a cat scratch. Shortly afterwards, there are swollen tender lumps adjacent to the scratch, either in the armpit, groin or neck. The swelling may last for weeks and may become more diffuse. There is loss of appetite, weight loss and generalized weakness. Fever may develop.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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