Bacillary angiomatosis

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC

Bacillary angiomatosis
Bacillary angiomatosis lesions
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Skin lesions, fever, malaise, weight loss
Complications	Disseminated infection, organ involvement
Onset	Variable
Duration	Chronic without treatment
Types	N/A
Causes	Bartonella henselae, Bartonella quintana
Risks	Immunocompromised state, HIV/AIDS
Diagnosis	Biopsy, PCR
Differential diagnosis	Kaposi's sarcoma, pyogenic granuloma, cutaneous leishmaniasis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Antibiotics such as erythromycin, doxycycline
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Good with treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Bacillary Angiomatosis is a systemic bacterial infection characterized by the proliferation of small blood vessels, resulting in the formation of tumor-like masses in the skin and other organs. It is caused by the bacteria Bartonella henselae and Bartonella quintana, and is most commonly seen in individuals with compromised immune systems, particularly those with HIV/AIDS.

Etiology

Bacillary Angiomatosis is caused by two species of gram-negative bacteria, Bartonella henselae and Bartonella quintana. These bacteria are typically transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or their fleas. B. henselae is most commonly associated with cat scratch disease, while B. quintana is the causative agent of trench fever.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with Bacillary Angiomatosis typically present with skin lesions that may resemble Kaposi's sarcoma or pyogenic granuloma. These lesions are often red or purple in color, and may be raised or flat. In addition to skin lesions, patients may also experience fever, fatigue, weight loss, and swollen lymph nodes. In severe cases, the bacteria can spread to other organs, including the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, leading to potentially life-threatening complications.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Bacillary Angiomatosis is typically made through a combination of clinical presentation and laboratory testing. Biopsy of a skin lesion can reveal the characteristic proliferation of blood vessels, and special staining techniques can be used to visualize the bacteria. Blood cultures may also be used to identify the bacteria, although this method is less sensitive.

Treatment

Treatment for Bacillary Angiomatosis typically involves long-term antibiotic therapy. The antibiotics doxycycline and erythromycin are most commonly used, although other antibiotics may be used in patients who cannot tolerate these medications. In severe cases, surgical removal of the lesions may be necessary.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for Bacillary Angiomatosis is generally good. However, in patients with severe disease or those with compromised immune systems, the disease can be life-threatening.

Prevention

Prevention of Bacillary Angiomatosis primarily involves avoiding contact with infected animals and their fleas. This is particularly important for individuals with compromised immune systems, who are at increased risk of developing the disease.

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