Bartonellosis
Bartonellosis
Bartonellosis (pronounced bar-toe-nel-oh-sis) is an infectious disease produced by bacteria of the genus Bartonella.
Etymology
The term "Bartonellosis" is derived from the name of the bacterium Bartonella, which was named after Alberto Barton, a Peruvian scientist who discovered the bacterium in 1909.
Definition
Bartonellosis is a group of emerging infectious diseases caused by bacteria belonging to the Bartonella genus. Bartonella bacteria are known to be transmitted by vectors (fleas, ticks, sand flies, lice, etc.) to hosts (humans, domestic animals, and wildlife). The disease can manifest in various ways, depending on the specific species of Bartonella involved and the immune response of the host.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Bartonellosis can vary greatly from one individual to another and can range from mild symptoms to severe disease. They can include fever, fatigue, headache, poor appetite, and an unusual streaked rash that resembles "stretch marks" from pregnancy. Swollen glands are typical, especially around the head, neck and arms.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Bartonellosis is challenging and involves a combination of clinical signs and symptoms, epidemiology, and in some cases, detection of Bartonella species. This can be done through various laboratory tests, including Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), and Indirect Fluorescent Antibody (IFA) testing.
Treatment
Treatment for Bartonellosis typically involves antibiotics, often for an extended period as the bacteria can hide in the lining of blood vessels. The specific type of antibiotic used can depend on the specific Bartonella species involved and the patient's overall health.
Related Terms
- Bartonella
- Alberto Barton
- Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
- Indirect Fluorescent Antibody
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bartonellosis
- Wikipedia's article - Bartonellosis
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