What is a common result of a scratch on the face caused by Bartonella henselae?

A common result of a scratch on the face caused by Bartonella henselae is submandibular lymphadenopathy. This bacterium is primarily associated with cat scratch fever, which typically results from a scratch or bite from an infected cat. After exposure to the bacteria, patients often develop lymphadenopathy, particularly in regions near the site of the scratch. This means that nearby lymph nodes, such as those in the submandibular area, swell as the body responds to the infection.

The immune response mobilizes lymphocytes and other immune cells to the site, leading to swelling of the lymph nodes. This is a key clinical feature of cat scratch disease, which aids in diagnosis. Although fever, rash, and nausea can occur in some cases, they are not as characteristic or commonly observed as the lymphadenopathy associated with this specific infection. Therefore, recognizing the submandibular lymphadenopathy as a result of a scratch from Bartonella henselae is crucial for both diagnosis and management of the disease.