Bartonella Health Dictionary

An infection in humans caused by a small gram-negative BACILLUS (Bartonella henselae). The domestic cat is a reservoir for the bacteria, and up to 50 per cent of the cat population may be affected. The disorder manifests itself as a skin lesion 3–10 days after a minor scratch; within two weeks the victim’s lymph glands enlarge and may produce pus. Fever, headache and malaise occur in some patients. Antibiotics do not seem to be e?ective. The skin lesion and lymph-gland enlargement subside spontaneously within 2–5 months.... cat-scratch fever

n. an infectious disease, largely confined to high river valleys in Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia, caused by the bacterium *Bartonella bacilliformis. The parasite, present in red blood cells and cells of the lymphatic system, is transmitted to humans by sandflies. There are two clinical types of the disease: Oroya fever (Carrion’s disease), whose symptoms include fever, anaemia, and enlargement of the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes; and verruga peruana, characterized by wartlike eruptions on the skin that can bleed easily and ulcerate. Oroya fever accounts for nearly all fatalities. Bartonellosis can be treated successfully with penicillin and other antibiotics and blood transfusions may be given to relieve the anaemia.

Other species of Bartonella cause *cat-scratch disease and *trench fever.... bartonellosis

an infectious disease caused by the bacterium *Bartonella henselae, which infects cats and is transmitted to humans by a cat scratch or bite. A papule or pustule develops at the site of the injury followed, a week to two months after infection, by swelling of the lymph nodes (usually those closest to the wound). Fever and malaise are common. The condition usually resolves without treatment but antibiotics may be given to prevent complications.... cat-scratch disease

n. see Bartonella.... haemobartonella

an infectious disease caused by the bacterium *Bartonella quintana and transmitted by body lice (*Pediculus humanus corporis). It was prevalent among soldiers during both World Wars and is now seen mainly in homeless people. Symptoms include variable fewer and persistent pain in the shins and other bones.... trench fever