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Developed Large Bruise And Swelling On Forearm After Scratched By Cat. Hard Lump Has Developed. Concern About Infection?
Question: my daughter was scratched by a cat and has developed a large bruise and swelling on her forearm. She does not want to go to a Dr. The bruising area is very discolored and a hard lump has developed in the middle. She does bruise easily as she is alcoholic and not in good health. She says it does not hurt and is feeling better.
I am concerned about infection -
I am concerned about infection -
Hello!
Thank you for the query.
You need to know that cat scratch wounds sometimes heal really bad. Its because cat has lots of unknown for human body bacteria under its nails. This bacteria, even if the scratch is small, can cause serious infection. Such infection gives symptoms like swelling, tenderness, pain. If left untreated, can cause serious complications.
As your daughter has also coagulation problems (due to liver cirrhosis most likely), such scratch could also cause hematoma. It also can be the source of an infection.
That is why it is strongly advisable for your daughter to visit general surgeon. Some incisions and wound cleaning might be necessary as well as antibiotics.
Hope this will help. Feel free to ask further questions.
Regards.
Thank you for the query.
You need to know that cat scratch wounds sometimes heal really bad. Its because cat has lots of unknown for human body bacteria under its nails. This bacteria, even if the scratch is small, can cause serious infection. Such infection gives symptoms like swelling, tenderness, pain. If left untreated, can cause serious complications.
As your daughter has also coagulation problems (due to liver cirrhosis most likely), such scratch could also cause hematoma. It also can be the source of an infection.
That is why it is strongly advisable for your daughter to visit general surgeon. Some incisions and wound cleaning might be necessary as well as antibiotics.
Hope this will help. Feel free to ask further questions.
Regards.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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