Bartonella bacilliformis

Bartonella bacilliformis (pronunciation: bar-toh-nell-uh ba-sil-ih-form-iss) is a gram-negative, flagellated, intracellular bacterium from the Bartonella genus. It is known to cause Carrion's disease, a potentially life-threatening illness if left untreated.

Etymology

The bacterium is named after the Peruvian microbiologist, Alberto Barton, who discovered it in 1905. The term 'bacilliformis' is derived from the Latin words 'bacillus' meaning 'little rod' and 'formis' meaning 'shape', referring to the rod-like shape of the bacterium.

Description

Bartonella bacilliformis is a small, rod-shaped bacterium that is aerobic and pleomorphic. It is unique among the Bartonella species in its ability to invade and replicate within both erythrocytes (red blood cells) and endothelial cells (cells that line the blood vessels).

Pathogenesis and Clinical Features

Bartonella bacilliformis is the causative agent of Carrion's disease, a biphasic illness consisting of an acute phase known as Oroya fever and a chronic phase known as verruga peruana. The bacterium is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected sandfly of the genus Lutzomyia.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Bartonella bacilliformis infection is typically made through blood culture or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. Treatment usually involves antibiotics such as ceftriaxone, chloramphenicol, or azithromycin.

Epidemiology

Bartonella bacilliformis is endemic to the Andean regions of South America, particularly in Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia. It is primarily transmitted in rural, mountainous areas at altitudes of 800 to 3200 meters.

Prevention

Prevention of Bartonella bacilliformis infection primarily involves avoiding sandfly bites through the use of insect repellents and protective clothing. There is currently no vaccine available for Carrion's disease.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Bartonella bacilliformis
Wikipedia's article - Bartonella bacilliformis

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Bartonella bacilliformis