Can You Get Cat Scratch Fever in Your Eye?
Cat scratch fever is often a harmless infection and rarely affects the eyes. However, some cases can be more serious, and eye problems should not be taken lightly; discuss treatment options with your doctor.
Other People Are Reading
-
Cat Scratch Fever
-
Cat scratch fever is caused by the Bartonella hensela bacteria. It is usually transmitted through the scratch or bite of an infected cat.
Eyes
-
While most cases of cat scratch fever do not involve the eye, some do. According to Alexander C. Tsang, MD, less than 10 percent of cases will affect the eye.
-
Eye Problems
-
Some reported problems of cat scratch fever in the eye include swelling of the optic nerve, eyelid lesions and conjunctivitis.
Cat Saliva
-
One way cat scratch fever can be transmitted is if cat saliva comes into contact with the white of the eye.
Treatment
-
Many cases of cat scratch fever do not require treatment and will go away on their own. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs can be prescribed for more serious cases. Some eye infections can be serious and require more intensive treatment.
Precautions
-
If you notice any ill effects after being bitten, scratched or licked by a cat, talk to your doctor. People with a suppressed immune system, such as AIDS patients, should be treated with antibiotics. Eye complications such as vision loss are possible, so it is important to seek medical attention.
-
