Final answer:
Cat scratch fever, or cat-scratch disease, is characterized by a pus-filled nodule at the site of the scratch, swelling and pain in nearby lymph nodes, and symptoms like fever, chills, and fatigue.
Step-by-step explanation:
The key features of cat scratch fever, also known as cat-scratch disease (CSD), include:
- A small nodule with pus forming at the site of the scratch 1 to 3 weeks after the initial injury
- Swelling and pain in the nearest lymph nodes
- Signs and symptoms such as fever, chills, and fatigue
In severe cases or immunocompromised patients, complications can occur, such as the proliferation of blood vessels (bacillary angiomatosis) or cyst-like cavities in the liver and spleen (bacillary peliosis). Diagnosis is challenging, but tests like immunofluorescence, serological tests, PCR, and gene sequencing can identify the bacterial species. Treatment with antibiotics is typically not necessary, except for immunocompromised patients who may require specific medications.