Which regional lymph nodes are most commonly affected in Bartonellosis (cat-scratch disease)?

Which regional lymph nodes are most commonly affected in Bartonellosis (cat-scratch disease)?

• A. Elbow
• B. Wrist
• C. Axilla, groin, neck
• D. Ankle

Answer: (C)

In cat-scratch disease, the swollen lymph nodes mirror the area where the cat scratch or bite occurred, reflecting the regional drainage of the lymphatic system. Inoculation commonly happens on the hands/arms or face, so the nodes that most often enlarge are the axillary (armpit) nodes from the upper limbs, the cervical (neck) nodes from the head/neck area, and the inguinal (groin) nodes from the lower body. Therefore, axilla, groin, and neck are the regions most commonly affected. Elbow, wrist, or ankle alone aren’t the main drainage sites for typical exposure areas, so they’re less characteristic.

In cat-scratch disease, the swollen lymph nodes mirror the area where the cat scratch or bite occurred, reflecting the regional drainage of the lymphatic system. Inoculation commonly happens on the hands/arms or face, so the nodes that most often enlarge are the axillary (armpit) nodes from the upper limbs, the cervical (neck) nodes from the head/neck area, and the inguinal (groin) nodes from the lower body. Therefore, axilla, groin, and neck are the regions most commonly affected. Elbow, wrist, or ankle alone aren’t the main drainage sites for typical exposure areas, so they’re less characteristic.