Cat scratch disease with posterior segment involvement

PURPOSE: To describe the clinical characteristics of patients with cat scratch disease during the last 2 years. METHODS: Clinical characteristics and anterior and posterior segment manifestations were reviewed in five patients who were serologically diagnosed as having cat scratch disease. RESULTS: Four women and one man were examined. Their ages ranged from 7 to 60 years. Each patient had a markedly elevated serum anti-Bartonella henselae antibody titer. Visual symptoms developed 2 weeks or less after the onset of systemic symptoms. Lymphadenopathy was detected in one of five patients. Neuroretinitis was found in 4 patients, and papillitis in 1 patient. Seven eyes showed retinochoroidal exudates. Anterior uveitis was observed in three eyes. Four patients received systemic corticosteroids. CONCLUSION: The ocular manifestations of cat scratch disease include neuroretinitis, papillitis, retinochoroidal exudates, and anterior uveitis.