Abstract

P 221

Bartonellosis causing bilateral neuroretinitis in a 6-year-old boy

Andreas Lipski, Norbert Bornfeld, Bernhard Jurklies
Zentrum für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Essen

Objective
The gram-negative Bartonella henselae species causes cat-scratch disease, frequently associated with ocular symptoms like oculoglandular syndrome, neuroretinitis or retinochoroiditis.
Methods
Case report
Results
A 6-year-old boy presented with bilateral vision loss, bilateral stellate maculopathy and generalized lymphadenopathy. History of frequent cat contacts and serologic indirect immunfluorescence tests verified the diagnosis.
Systemic antibiotic therapy using azithromycin was administered orally over 4 weeks with good resolution of exudates and lymphadenopathy. Vision recovered slowly over 6 months.
Conclusions
Bartonella infection is a frequent cause of stellate neuroretinitis. Avoidance of cat scratches and bites as well as decontamination of flea is recommended. Pediatric counselling and guidance of therapy are warranted in children.

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