The evaluation of rodent bites starts with a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with rodent bites include:

• Abrasion around the bite
• Puncture wound
• Swelling around the bite
• Tenderness around the bite
• Bruising around the bite
• Redness, swelling and tenderness around the bite:
• Cellulitis of the arm
• Cellulitis of the hand
• Cellulitis of the leg
• Cellulitis of the foot
• Cellulitis of the abdomen
• Cellulitis of the breast
• Red streaks spreading from the wound:
• Lymphangitis of the arm
• Lymphangitis of the back of the leg
• Lymphangitis of the hand from a finger wound
• Swollen lymph glands above the bite:
• Axillary lymphadenopathy
• Inguinal lymphadenopathy

Tests are not necessary to make the diagnosis of a rodent bite. Tests may be performed, in order to look for a fracture or a foreign body, such as a tooth.

Tests that may be used to evaluate rodent bites include:

• X-rays
• Used to exclude a fracture or a foreign body
• Wound culture