CSD in Immunocompromised Patients: Investigate the Clinical Features, Diagnosis, and Management of CSD in Patients with HIV/AIDS, Cancer, or Other Immunodeficiency

Abstract

Cat Scratch Disease (CSD), caused by Bartonella henselae, is usually a self-limited condition in immunocompetent people. However, in immune compromised patients particularly those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or other forms of immunodeficiency the disease can appear with unusual, severe, and widespread symptoms. CSD is frequently related with bacillary angiomatosis and peliosis hepatis in people with HIV/AIDS, both of which can be fatal. Cancer patients and transplant recipients may experience chronic fever, visceral organ involvement, or osteomyelitis. Clinical history (including cat exposure), serologic testing, Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), tissue biopsy, and imaging techniques all contribute to the diagnosis. Serologic assays and PCR are particularly useful, and Warthin-Starry stains may aid in histopathological identification. Prolonged antibiotic treatment is part of management; for severe instances, rifampin is frequently used in conjunction with macrolides or doxycycline. Longer treatment periods are usually needed for immunocompromised patients, and relapse is not unusual if immune reconstitution is not accomplished. In this high-risk group, early identification and customized treatment are crucial to enhancing results and avoiding problems.