Cat scratch dermatitis, often colloquially referred to as “cat ringworm” or “cat fungus” despite not being caused by a worm or fungus, is a skin infection that can be transmitted from cats to humans. This infection is caused by a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, but most commonly associated with the fungus Microsporum canis. It’s important to note that while the term “cat ringworm” is often used, it’s technically inaccurate as it’s not caused by a worm. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to identify cat scratch dermatitis in humans, its symptoms, and what to do if you suspect you have it.
Identifying Cat Scratch Dermatitis Symptoms
The symptoms of cat scratch dermatitis in humans can vary, but typically include the following:
- Circular Skin Lesions: The most characteristic symptom of cat scratch dermatitis is the development of circular, ring-shaped skin lesions. These lesions may be red, itchy, and scaly, and may have a raised border.
- Scaly Skin: The skin within the lesion may be dry and scaly, and may peel or flake off.
- Hair Loss: In some cases, hair loss may occur around the lesion.
- Spread to Other Areas: If left untreated, cat scratch dermatitis can spread to other areas of the body, often appearing as new lesions or as an enlargement of existing ones.
- Symptoms in Cats: If you suspect you have cat scratch dermatitis, it’s important to also check your cat for symptoms. Infected cats may have similar skin lesions, hair loss, or scaly skin.
Diagnosis
If you suspect you have cat scratch dermatitis, it’s important to seek medical attention from a healthcare professional. Diagnosis is typically made based on the appearance of the skin lesions and a history of contact with cats. In some cases, your healthcare provider may take a skin scraping or biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for cat scratch dermatitis in humans typically involves topical antifungal medications applied directly to the affected skin. In more severe cases, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for treatment and to complete the full course of medication to prevent the infection from recurring.
Prevention
To prevent the spread of cat scratch dermatitis, it’s important to maintain good hygiene practices and to keep your cat healthy. This includes regular grooming, washing your hands thoroughly after handling your cat, and seeking prompt veterinary care if your cat develops any skin lesions or other signs of infection.
Conclusion
Cat scratch dermatitis, often mistakenly referred to as “cat ringworm,” is a skin infection that can be transmitted from cats to humans. Symptoms include circular skin lesions, scaly skin, hair loss, and the potential for the infection to spread to other areas of the body. Diagnosis is made by a healthcare professional, and treatment typically involves topical or oral antifungal medications. To prevent the spread of cat scratch dermatitis, maintain good hygiene practices and keep your cat healthy.
