Case Description. A patient who had close contact with a cat subsequently developed a localized, suppurative cervical lymphadenitis. As B. henselae was identified in 1992, the authors were able to confirm the existence of CSD serologically. Surgical drainage resulted in a successful resolution of the disease process.

Clinical Implications. As patients with CSD may be seen in the dental office, an awareness of its symptomatology can prevent unnecessary dental intervention and facilitate early treatment.