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VOL. 11, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Cat scratch disease: Current advances in Bartonella henselae infection from a one health perspective - A review
Authors
R Suresh, Sujatha Singh, R Sriharshitha, Nikhil, P Rachana, C H Sninija, K Shivani
Abstract
Cat scratch disease (CSD) is an important zoonotic infection caused
primarily by Bartonella henselae, a fastidious intracellular
Gram-negative bacterium maintained in domestic cats, with transmission largely
sustained by the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis). Once considered a
mild illness limited to regional lymphadenopathy after a cat scratch or bite,
CSD is now recognized as a clinically diverse disease capable of affecting
multiple organ systems. In addition to its classical presentation, B.
henselae infection has been associated with ocular disease,
neurobartonellosis, hepatosplenic involvement, osteomyelitis, infective
endocarditis and bacillary angiomatosis, particularly in immunocompromised
individuals. Recent advances in molecular diagnostic techniques have greatly
improved the detection of Bartonella infections and have expanded
current understanding of bacterial diversity, host adaptation, and transmission
dynamics. Domestic cats remain the principal reservoir, while flea infestation
plays a central role in maintaining infection within feline populations and
facilitating indirect transmission to humans. The increasing global population
of companion animals, together with changing environmental and vector-related
factors, has renewed interest in CSD as a significant One Health concern. This
review summarizes current knowledge on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical
manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cat scratch disease,
with emphasis on recent developments in molecular epidemiology and
host–pathogen interactions. It also highlights the importance of coordinated
efforts involving physicians, veterinarians, microbiologists, and public health
professionals to improve surveillance, promote responsible pet ownership and
flea control, and strengthen integrated One Health strategies for reducing the
impact of this increasingly recognized zoonotic disease.
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Pages:134-140
How to cite this article:
R Suresh, Sujatha Singh, R Sriharshitha, Nikhil, P Rachana, C H Sninija, K Shivani "Cat scratch disease: Current advances in <i>Bartonella henselae</i> infection from a one health perspective - A review". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 11, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 134-140
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