MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: CSD skin test

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CSD skin test

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test How the test will feel	Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean What the risks are Special considerations

Illustrations

CSD skin test

Alternative names Return to top

Cat scratch disease skin test

Definition Return to top

The cat scratch disease (CSD) antigen, which consists of sterile pus derived from a human lymph node from someone known to have CSD, is injected under the skin to help determine if you have been infected with the disease.

How the test is performed Return to top

The antigen is injected just under the skin, usually on the forearm, so that a small lump pushes the skin up. The lump indicates that the antigen has been injected at the correct depth. The site is labeled, usually with a pen.

After 48 to 72 hours, a medical provider will check the site of the injection to determine whether there has been a reaction.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

There is no special preparation. People with dermatitis or other skin irritations should have the test performed at a location where no irritation is present.

How the test will feel Return to top

When the antigen is injected, you may feel a stinging sensation where the needle is inserted. After the reaction begins, the area may itch or burn.

Why the test is performed Return to top

This test was used more extensively in the past, before Bartonella henselae, the bacteria that causes CSD, was identified.

Normal Values Return to top

There should be less than a 5 mm inflammation zone of the disease antigen.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

An inflammation zone of greater than 5 mm may indicate that you have been infected with cat scratch disease recently or in the past.

What the risks are Return to top

Because the antigen is obtained from sterile pus derived from human lymph nodes, there is a small potential risk of transmission of viruses. Also, there are occasional local reactions that may occur such as itching and rarely hives.

Special considerations Return to top

Although this test has historical value since it was used in the past as one of the criteria for diagnosis, there are better tests available for the diagnosis of CSD. In addition, the CSD antigen has not been standardized, is not widely available, and carries the potential risk of transmitting other pathogens such as viruses.

Update Date: 8/18/2003

Updated by: Daniel Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Infectious Diseases, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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