CSD skin test

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CSD skin test

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

Cat scratch disease skin test

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

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There is no special preparation. People with dermatitis or other skin irritations should have the test performed on an area of skin where no irritation is present.

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.

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

Review Date: 06/09/2005
Reviewed By: Kenneth Wener, M.D., Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.