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| Definition: |
The cat scratch disease antigen, which consists of sterile pus derived from a human lymph node from someone known to have cat scratch disease, is injected under the skin (intradermally) to help determine if you have been infected with cat scratch disease.
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| Alternative Names: |
Cat scratch disease skin test
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| How the test is performed: |
The antigen is injected just under the skin, usually on the forearm, so that a small lump pushes the skin up. The lump indicates that the antigen has been injected at the correct depth. The site is labeled, usually with an ink pen.
After 48 to 72 hours, a medical provider will determine if there has been a reaction at the site of the injection.
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| How to prepare for the test: |
There is no special preparation. People with dermatitis or other skin irritations should have the test performed at a location where no irritation is present.
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| How the test will feel: |
When the antigen is injected, you may feel a stinging sensation where the needle is inserted. After the reaction begins, the area may itch or burn.
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| Why the test is performed: |
This test was used more extensively in the past as it was one of the original four criteria used for the diagnosis of cat scratch disease before the bacteria which causes cat scratch disease- Bartonella henselae was identified.
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| Normal Values: |
There should be less than a 5 mm inflammation zone of the disease antigen.
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| What abnormal results mean: |
An inflammation zone of greater than 5 mm may indicate that you have been infected with cat scratch disease recently or in the past.
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| What the risks are: |
Because the antigen is obtained from sterile pus derived from human lymph nodes, there is a small potential risk of transmission of viruses. Also, there are occasional local reactions that may occur such as itching and rarely hives.
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| Special considerations: |
This test has historical value since it was used in the past as one of the criteria for the diagnosis of cat scratch disease. There are currently better tests available for the diagnosis of this disease. In addition, the cat scratch disease antigen has not been standardized, is not widely available and carries the potential risk of transmitting other pathogens such as viruses. For this reason, its use is no longer warranted in most settings.
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Review Date: 8/19/2001
Reviewed By: Rocio Hurtado, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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