Cat scratch disease. Report of a case with hepatic lesions and a brief review of the literature.

An unusual case of cat scratch disease with large hepatic defects is presented. We describe a previously healthy 16-yr-old black man presenting with a neck mass, hepatosplenomegaly, and systemic symptoms. Pathology of the neck mass revealed a lymph node with chronic inflammation and focal necrosis. An abnormal computed tomography scan showed large hepatic defects which were confirmed at peritoneoscopy; biopsy specimens are described. Routine and special stains for bacteria and fungi were all negative. Serologic studies were unremarkable but a cat scratch skin test was positive. Follow-up examinations revealed resolution of all findings. Cat scratch disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of diseases causing lymphadenopathy, systemic symptoms, and hepatic (and splenic) defects.