Retinal artery occlusion due to Bartonella henselae infection: a case series

Purpose: To report a case series of six patients suffering from branch retinal artery occlusion due to Bartonella henselae infection, in order to raise awareness to this etiology in the differential diagnosis of retinal artery occlusion. Methods: A retrospective case series of patients with branch retinal artery occlusion due to ocular cat scratch disease who presented at four tertiary medical centers in Israel, Turkey and Saudi Arabia between the years 2008-2014. Data retrieved from the medical records included demographic data, exposure, complaints, visual acuity, clinical findings and imaging, laboratory assessment, treatment, disease course and visual outcome. Results: The study group consisted of six patients who presented with branch retinal artery occlusion with or without neuroretinitis. One patient had multiple artery occlusions. Diagnosis of cat scratch disease was established based on positive serology and accompanying systemic symptoms, after ruling out other causes of retinal artery occlusion. Treatment included various regimens of antibiotics and systemic steroids. Visual outcome depended upon the obstructed artery. Conclusion: Cat scratch disease may cause retinal artery occlusion in infected patients, leaving them with a permanent visual field defect. When retinal artery occlusion occurs as an early sign of the disease, prompt recognition may prevent further events. Thorough history and relevant tests may be of great value.