Transient paresis associated with cat-scratch disease: case report and literature review of vertebral osteomyelitis caused by Bartonella henselae

Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2006 Dec;25(12):1177-81. doi: 10.1097/01.inf.0000246807.14916.d3.

Abstract

Cat-scratch disease (CSD) rarely presents as vertebral osteomyelitis. We describe a case with paresis of the arm with total recovery after antibiotic and neurosurgical therapy. We reviewed 20 other cases of CSD vertebral osteomyelitis in the literature. This diagnosis should be considered in patients with systemic symptoms, back pain, and cat contact. The prognosis is generally good.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bartonella henselae*
  • Cat-Scratch Disease / complications*
  • Cat-Scratch Disease / diagnosis
  • Cat-Scratch Disease / drug therapy
  • Cat-Scratch Disease / surgery
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Osteomyelitis / complications
  • Osteomyelitis / microbiology*
  • Paresis / etiology*
  • Spondylitis / complications
  • Spondylitis / microbiology*