Cat Scratch Disease - A Diagnostic Dilemma in Cervical Lymphadenopathy

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical lymphadenopathy in adults can be infective, benign or malignant. Wide spectrum of clinical diagnosis is possible as patients experience constituitional symptoms along with regional lymphadenopathy. Histopathological examination and serological tests provide diagnostic confirmation for accurate treatment.

Case series: This is a descriptive case series study conducted at a tertiary care centre between Feb 2023- March 2025. We report the clinico-epidemiological profile and management of 3 patients with cat scratch disease. All patients presented with cervical lymphadenopathy and were diagnosed and managed with surgery and antibiotics.

Discussion: Cat scratch disease is an uncommon cause of cervical adenopathy in India. It is a benign self-limiting disease caused by Bartonella Henselae. Histopathological examination can vary from lymphoid hyperplasia to chronic granulomatous inflammation with necrosis. All patients in our case series were managed successfully and were followed for 6 months post treatment.

Conclusion: Cat scratch disease though rare should be included in the differential diagnosis of cervical lymphadenopathy in India.