Cat-scratching encephalopathy
General description
Cat-scratch disease results from infection by Bartonella henselae, primarily transmitted via cats (and, less commonly, dogs) through bite wounds or scratches. The infection is characterized by localized cutaneous inflammation and painful lymphadenopathy, which may occasionally manifest systemically. Neurologic complications, although rare, include epilepsy, paralysis, and visual impairment. Additionally, the disease can lead to endocarditis, hepatitis, and purpura. The typical latency period is approximately two weeks.
Insula and thalamus lesion
The characteristic imaging finding of cat-scratch encephalopathy includes unilateral involvement of the insula and thalamus, with typical involvement of the thalamic pulvinar.
Cortical lesion
In cat-scratch encephalopathy, cortical lesions are characterized by swellings and hyperintensity on T2WI and FLAIR sequences of the cerebral cortex, predominantly affecting the temporal and parietal lobes.
Optic neuritis
Optic neuropathy associated with cat scratch disease is characterized by unilateral, intraocular, elevated contrast lesions confined to the optic disc.