What happens after a telemedicine visit for Cat Scratch Disease (Bartonella) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for Cat Scratch Disease (CSD), which is caused by bacteria spread through cat scratches or bites, you will usually receive advice on how to care for your child at home. The healthcare provider may suggest ways to manage symptoms like swollen lymph nodes and fever. Often, antibiotics are recommended if the infection is more severe or persistent. Follow-up visits might be scheduled to check on your child's progress. It is important to watch for any worsening symptoms or new signs that could mean complications. If serious symptoms develop, such as high fever, severe swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek in-person medical care immediately. Telemedicine can help guide you on what to expect and how to care for your child but cannot replace hands-on exams or emergency treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever lasting more than 3 days or not responding to fever reducers — seek emergency care.
• Rapidly increasing redness, swelling, or pain around the scratch or bite — get urgent medical evaluation.
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or sudden confusion — call emergency services immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of symptoms and history related to Cat Scratch Disease.
• Providing guidance on home care and symptom management.
• Prescribing antibiotics when appropriate based on clinical evaluation.
• Scheduling follow-up telemedicine visits to monitor progress.
• Answering questions about the illness and treatment.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations that require hands-on assessment.
• Managing severe or emergency symptoms such as airway obstruction or severe systemic infection.
• Conducting laboratory tests or imaging studies.
• Administering intravenous treatments or hospital care.
• Diagnosing unrelated or complex conditions that require in-person evaluation.

Understanding Cat Scratch Disease

Cat Scratch Disease is an infection caused by bacteria called *Bartonella henselae*. It usually happens after a scratch or bite from a cat. Children often develop a small bump or blister at the site, followed by swollen lymph nodes nearby. Symptoms may include fever, tiredness, and headache. The illness often gets better on its own but sometimes needs treatment.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will review your child's symptoms and may recommend home care steps, such as keeping the affected area clean and using pain relievers. If antibiotics are needed, they will explain how to give them safely. The provider may also advise when to schedule follow-up visits to monitor recovery.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child develops any of the following, get medical help right away:

These could be signs of complications requiring urgent treatment.

How to Care for Your Child at Home

Most children recover well with rest and simple care:

Follow your provider’s instructions carefully and complete any prescribed antibiotics.

Preparing for Your Next Telemedicine Visit

Before your follow-up visit, note any new or worsening symptoms. Have a list of medications your child is taking and be ready to describe any changes in their condition. This helps your provider give the best advice remotely.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms, including when they started and any changes.
• Have a list of any medications or supplements your child is taking.
• Prepare to show the affected area clearly via video if possible.
• Note any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit place for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a thermometer and pain relievers available to discuss symptoms and treatment.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions for medications and home care.
• Keep the affected area clean and monitor for changes.
• Watch for any red flag symptoms and seek care if they occur.
• Schedule and attend any recommended follow-up visits.
• Contact your provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can Cat Scratch Disease go away on its own?

Yes, many cases of Cat Scratch Disease improve without treatment within a few weeks. However, antibiotics may be recommended to help speed recovery or prevent complications.

Is my child contagious to others?

Cat Scratch Disease is not usually spread from person to person. It is caused by bacteria from cats, so preventing scratches and bites is important.

What can I do to prevent Cat Scratch Disease?

Avoid rough play with cats, especially kittens. Wash any cat scratches or bites promptly with soap and water. Keep your child's nails trimmed to reduce injury risk.

When should I give my child antibiotics?

Only give antibiotics if prescribed by a healthcare provider. They will decide based on your child's symptoms and overall health.

Can telemedicine replace in-person visits for this disease?

Telemedicine is helpful for initial advice and follow-up but cannot replace physical exams or emergency care when needed.

Sources

1. Cat Scratch Disease — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Cat Scratch Disease — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Cat-Scratch Disease — Mayo Clinic.
4. Bartonella Infections — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.