The nodes are initially firm and tender, later becoming fluctuant, and may drain with fistula formation. Other rare manifestations include erythema nodosum, osteolytic lesions, and thrombocytopenic purpura. The skin lesion and lymphadenopathy subside spontaneously within 2 to 5 mo. The diagnosis can be confirmed by positive antibody titers for B. henselae. Prognosis is excellent, except in severe neurologic or hepatosplenic disease, which may be fatal or followed by residual effects.
Complete recovery is usual.
Antibiotic treatment is not clearly beneficial and has not been evaluated prospectively. In vitro antibiotic susceptibilities often do not correlate with clinical results. All rights reserved.