Fever, weight loss and organomegaly are commonly seen. Cat scratches and bites are risk factors for the disease. Bacillary Peliosis results from B. henselae infection of the vascular parenchyma occurring in immunocompromised people. Cystic, blood-filled spaces develop in the liver, spleen or lymph nodes. Fever, abdominal pain, GI signs, weight loss and cachexia are seen.
Cat scratches or bites are risk factors for the disease.
A Febrile Bacteremia Syndrome occurs secondary to B. henselae bacteremia. Signs in immunocompromized patients, include malaise, fatigue, weight loss and recurring, increasing fevers. In immunocompetent patients signs include persistent or relapsing fevers with arthralgia, myalgia and headaches. Long term asymptomatic persistent bacteremia can develop. Exposure to cats does not appear to be a risk factor for the disease.