Abstract

Bartonella henselae, the etiological agent of Cat Scratch Disease (CSD), is a common zoonotic pathogen in pediatrics. While most cases are self-limited and present as regional lymphadenopathy, atypical forms can have ocular involvement. Parinaud’s oculoglandular syndrome is a rare manifestation characterized by unilateral granulomatous conjunctivitis and ipsilateral preauricular or submandibular lymphadenopathy [1,2]. We describe a case of a 12-year-old boy presenting with left-sided conjunctivitis, periorbital edema, and cervical lymphadenopathies, associated with recent fever and a history of close contact with domestic cats. Serologic testing confirmed Bartonella henselae infection. He was treated with doxycycline and rifampicin, with favorable clinical evolution. This case is notable for the presumed direct ocular inoculation via a corneal lesion, an uncommon but described route [1]. Prompt recognition of this rare presentation of CSD and appropriate antimicrobial therapy are essential to prevent complications and ensure recovery.

Keywords:Bartonella henselae; Parinaud’s oculoglandular syndrome; Cat scratch disease; Pediatric conjunctivitis; Lymphadenopathy