Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
In almost all cases, the swollen lymph nodes usually resolve within
a few weeks to months, even without treatment. If you have had a pre-
vious exposure to cat scratch disease, it is unlikely the bacteria will ever
bother you again. People can take anti-inflammatory medications to
help reduce the pain of the swollen lymph nodes.
In some individuals, the lymph nodes become abscessed and need
to be surgically drained. In these cases, or when individuals with com-
promised immune systems are infected, antibiotics are used. People with
cat scratch disease are not contagious to others.
If you are concerned about cat scratch disease because of your per-
sonal health problems, there is a test that can check your cat's blood for
the agent. Because they show no signs of the disease, cats are not rou-
tinely treated with antibiotics. To help prevent cat scratch disease, be
cautious when handling unfamiliar cats, keep your cat's nails trimmed,
and do not allow your cat to bite or scratch you during interactive play.
OTHER ZOONOSES
Although zoonotic agents have the potential to infect any human,
immunocompromised patients are most at risk for developing severe
disease. Healthy adult, parasite-free, indoor cats are unlikely to pose any
threat to humans.
Cryptosporidia
Cryptosporidia is a protozoal parasite that can potentially pass between
cats and humans. Contaminated water is thought to be the most common
source of human infection, but humans could become infected through
contact with infected cat feces. Eating infected rodents most likely infects
cats. Cryptosporidial infections cause severe diarrhea that can require hos-
pitalization and intravenous fluid therapy for both two- and four-legged
victims. Examining and testing feces can detect the parasite.
Roundworms and Hookworms
Roundworms and hookworms can potentially infect humans. Children
can accidentally ingest roundworm eggs if they play in sandboxes or
dirt contaminated by dog or cat feces. Eggs hatch in their intestines, and
larvae can then penetrate the intestinal wall and invade other tissues.
The condition is called visceral larva migrans.
