Treatment:

Generally, cat scratch disease is not serious. Medical treatment is not usually needed. However, in severe cases, treatment with antibiotics can be helpful.

In AIDS patients and in other people who have suppressed immune systems, cat scratch disease is more serious, and treatment with antibiotics is recommended.

Expectations (prognosis):

In children with normal immune systems, full recovery without treatment is the norm. In immunocompromised people, treatment with antibiotics generally leads to recovery.

Complications:

• Parinaud's syndrome
• Encephalopathy
• Neuroretinitis
• Osteomyelitis

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have enlarged lymph nodes and a history of exposure to a cat.