Latest news with #Bartonellahenselae
Time of India
07-08-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Can a 'scratch' cause THIS deadly brain infection
In a rare incident in Mumbai, a young girl ended up in the ICU after a seemingly harmless cat scratch led to a dangerous brain infection. After rescuing a stray kitten, she contracted neurobartonellosis, a rare form of cat scratch disease. A tiny scratch landed a young girl in the ICU, and shortly after, she was diagnosed with a rare, but dangerous brain infection. This rare case has shocked many, with many wondering if a seemingly harmless scratch could lead to brain damage. A rare case Dr Vishal Gabale, a functional medicine specialist based in Mumbai, India, has recently shared a rare case, where a child ended up in the intensive care unit, after playing with a cat. Two weeks before landing in the hospital, the girl had rescued a stray kitten. 'She never knew she would end up in ICU just for helping this kitten,' Dr. Gabale said in an Instagram video , stressing the importance of handling animals with care. And no, the girl didn't get rabies. 'So, exactly two weeks later when she helped this kitten, she collapsed at school. She came to her ER with generalized seizure, high-grade fever, and weakness on the left side of the body. Looking at the symptoms, we were suspecting an infection. But there were no signs of meningitis, no toxoplasmosis, her CSF was normal, only lymphocytic leucitosis was there. But when we did the MRI, it was showing a ring-enhancing lesion in right parietal lobe. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Earn Summer Cash Back Rewards on Groceries Save Mart Join Now Undo We were all confused,' the doctor said, explaining about the difficulty in diagnosing the cause. Cat scratch and a dangerous disease The cause remained a mystery, but the doctor soon noticed a faint scratch on the child's arm. Her mother recalled that the child had rescued a kitten and used to play with it. The doctors soon test the child for Bartonella henselae , the bacteria responsible for cat scratch disease. The results came back positive, and the girl was diagnosed with neurobartonellosis, a rare but life-threatening brain infection. The bacteria found in a cat's saliva can enter the human body through a scratch or bite. When the kitten scratched the child, the bacteria entered the body and then into the bloodstream. In most cases, cat scratch disease causes mild symptoms, such as swollen lymph nodes, fever, or fatigue, which resolve without serious complications. However, in the little girl's case, it led to the infection of the brain. 'Usually, it just causes swollen lymph nodes. But sometimes, rarely, it can cause blood brain barrier via infected endothelial cells, inflammatory cytokines, or direct infection. And then it attacks the brain, causing seizure, encephalopathy, neuroretinitis, and even hemiparesis,' the doctor said. (Pic courtesy: iStock) According to a 2023 study the incidence of cat-scratch disease was reported to be 6.4 cases per 100,000 population in adults and 9.4 cases per 100,000 population in children aged 5-9 years globally. Supreme Court Pushes Central Govt to Finalise FOPL: What It Means & Why It Matters? | Explained The girl's medical team acted swiftly, upon diagnosis, and administered doxycycline and rifampin. 'This is a standard treatment for the CNS Bartonella. Slowly, she got better,' the doctor said. While most cat scratches are harmless, sometimes it could lead to serious risk. Even a small scratch should not be dismissed.
Indian Express
02-08-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
If a cat scratches, you may get this disease
Cats are beloved companions to many. Who doesn't love playing with them and their paws? But did you know you stand the risk of contracting this disease through a scratch from them? Cat Scratch Disease (CSD), a zoonotic infection caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, is often transmitted through scratches, bites, or contact with the saliva of an infected cat. According to Dr PN Renjen, Senior Consultant, Neurology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, this condition primarily manifests as swollen lymph nodes near the site of the scratch, fever, and fatigue. However, in rare cases, it can lead to serious neurological complications, including encephalopathy, which presents with symptoms such as confusion, seizures, severe headaches, and memory disturbances. While most cases of CSD are mild and self-limiting, Dr Renjen emphasises that neurological involvement is uncommon but concerning. Encephalopathy, a potential complication, arises when the bacteria affect the brain, leading to altered mental states and other severe symptoms. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical to managing such outcomes effectively. Preventive measures are especially crucial for individuals with weakened immune systems, as they are more susceptible to severe complications. Dr Renjen suggests the following: If unusual symptoms such as persistent fever, swollen lymph nodes, or neurological issues occur after a cat scratch or bite, immediate medical consultation is essential. Diagnosis often involves blood tests, and treatment typically includes antibiotics to prevent complications and ensure recovery. As Dr Renjen notes, 'Awareness and timely action are crucial in preventing and managing Cat Scratch Disease effectively, particularly in vulnerable populations.'
NDTV
08-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
You Can Catch These Diseases From Your Pets
Humans can catch certain diseases from their pets and these are called zoonotic diseases. While pets offer companionship and health benefits, they can also carry bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi that may spread to people. The risk increases with poor hygiene, weakened immune systems, or lack of preventive pet care. However, most pet-related infections are preventable with proper pet handling, regular vet visits, cleanliness, and good personal hygiene. Keep reading as we discuss some diseases you can catch from your pets and how to avoid them. 8 Common diseases you can catch from your pets and how to avoid them 1. Ringworm A fungal infection that affects the skin, scalp, or nails. Pets like cats and dogs can carry it and transmit it through direct contact. Regularly bathe and groom pets. Disinfect areas your pet frequently visits. Avoid touching animals with bald patches or lesions. Always wash your hands after petting or handling pets. 2. Toxoplasmosis Toxoplasmosis is caused by a parasite found in cat faeces. It's especially risky for pregnant women and those with weak immune systems. Clean the litter box daily while wearing gloves (preferably someone else should do it during pregnancy), and wash hands thoroughly afterward. Avoid undercooked meat, another source of the parasite. 3. Cat scratch disease (CSD) A bacterial infection caused by Bartonella henselae, usually spread through scratches or bites from infected cats. Avoid rough play with cats, especially kittens. Clean scratches or bites immediately with soap and water. Keep cats indoors and flea-free. 4. Salmonellosis Caused by Salmonella bacteria, which can be transmitted through handling reptiles, birds, or contaminated pet food (especially raw diets). Always wash your hands after touching pets or their food. Keep reptiles away from kitchens and children under 5. Avoid feeding pets raw meat without veterinary advice. 5. Leptospirosis A bacterial infection often spread through the urine of infected dogs or wild animals. Humans can contract it through contaminated water or soil. Vaccinate your dog, avoid walking them in floodwaters or muddy areas, and wear gloves when cleaning up pet urine or waste. 6. Campylobacteriosis A bacterial infection that causes diarrhoea in humans, often transmitted by handling puppies or kittens with diarrhoea. Practice good hygiene when cleaning up after pets. Wash hands after pet contact, especially before eating or cooking. 7. Rabies A deadly virus transmitted through bites from infected animals. It affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. Ensure pets are vaccinated against rabies. Avoid contact with stray or wild animals. Seek immediate medical care if bitten or scratched. 8. Hookworms and roundworms These parasites live in the intestines of pets and can be passed to humans through faeces-contaminated soil or pet fur. They can cause skin infections or more serious internal issues. Deworm pets regularly. Promptly clean up pet faeces. Teach children not to play in areas where pets relieve themselves, and ensure they wash their hands afterward. Regular veterinary checkups, proper pet hygiene, clean surroundings, and awareness are your best tools to enjoy a safe, healthy bond with your furry (or feathery or scaly) friend. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
