Bartonella
What Is Bartonella?
Bartonella is a general term describing a group of gram-negative, intracellular bacteria is comprised of approximately two dozen species. One particular species, Bartonella henselae, has been identified as the causative agent of Cat Scratch Disease (CSD), an acute illness causing swollen lymph nodes, body aches, fatigue, and fever.
See more symptoms below.
Bartonella can be spread by cat scratches, biting insects and arthropods (ticks, mosquitos, sand flies, fleas, etc.). This study confirms the possibility of Bartonella spp. being transmitted via blood transfusion.
In a survey conducted by LymeDisease.org, over half of participating patients reported having at least one other infection, commonly referred to as a co-infection. In fact, Bartonella was diagnosed in 28% of responders. It is evident from surveys that if symptoms of Lyme disease persist beyond six months of proper treatment, Bartonella and/or other coinfections should be considered. (Ref: https://rawlsmd.com/health-articles/understanding-bartonella)
What are the symptoms of Bartonella?
Symptoms of Bartonella can vary widely and can present in either an acute or chronic form making diagnosis difficult. In those with a strong immune system, a Bartonella infection, may not cause any symptoms at all and can even be cleared by the body. However, if there is immune dysfunction, as is often the case in those with Lyme disease, the infection can become low-grade and take on a chronic form with vague symptoms.
Symptoms of Bartonella infection are:
Rash, bump, or blister at or near the site of infection
Fever (typically less than 102ยบ F)
Swollen lymph nodes near the point of infection, often very large, painful, and filled with pus
Headache
Fatigue
Joint pain
Decreased appetite
Severe Bartonella Symptoms Can Include:
Red, linear, non-painful skin lesions known as Bart Tracks; often misdiagnosed as stretch marks.
Rashes or pustules
Swollen lymph nodes, more generalized and often milder than in acute disease
Headache
Fatigue
Joint pain, bone pain, or pain in tendons and ligaments
Pain in the soles of the feet, often misdiagnosed as heel spurs or plantar fasciitis
Anxiety, depression, rage, and other changes in mood
Neuropsychiatric such as schizophrenia, mania, panic disorder, and others
Tingling, Numbness, Crawling sensation, or buzzing
Freezing or burning sensation
Bartonella Rash
How is Bartonella diagnosed?
Various testing methods are available, although a single gold-standard test does not exist. Too often, misdiagnosis is very common. For this reason, it is imperative that persons exhibiting symptoms of Bartonella seek evaluation by a doctor familiar with the disease. Often this means seeking an evaluation by what is termed a Lyme Literate Medical Doctor, or LLMD, a doctor with a special interest in Lyme disease and associated coinfections. It is important to note that, in a broader sense, LLMDs can be Medical Doctors (MD), Chiropractors (DC), Naturopaths (ND), or Functional Medicine Doctors (MD). To find a LLMD in your area, please visit the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) website here.
Diagnosis of Bartonella is often based on clinical history and symptoms alone, although many doctors will seek laboratory testing for confirmation. Serological testing is most readily available and includes detection of IgG and IgM antibodies. However, false negatives do occur. More advanced testing can include PCR, IFA, or FISH testing. For a full review of testing methods available, IGeneX offers a very comprehensive review here. They are one of the premier tick borne illness testing labs in the United States.
Summary:
Bartonella is a relatively common Lyme coinfection with up to one third of Lyme patients affected.
Symptoms vary widely and can include skin lesions known as Bart Tracks, joint pain, headaches, fatigue, and general malaise. In some instances, Bartonella can manifest as neuropsychiatric illness. Diagnosis of Bartonella can be problematic as testing methods are not fool-proof and false negatives can occur. Diagnosis and subsequent treatment are best performed by a Lyme Literate Medical Doctor to ensure the most up-to-date treatment. Bartonella is considered an emerging tick-borne illness that can often be chronic in nature.
Learn more about Bartonella from expert Dr. Breitchwerdt below.
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Dr. Ed Breitschwerdt discusses the importance of acknowledging Bartonella.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bartonella
What is Bartonella?
Bartonella is a genus of bacteria that can cause various infections in humans. It is commonly associated with a condition known as bartonellosis or cat scratch disease. Bartonella species are typically transmitted to humans through bites or scratches from infected animals, such as cats, fleas or ticks.
What are the common symptoms of Bartonella infection?
Bartonella infection can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:
Swollen lymph nodes near the site of the scratch or bite (typical in cat scratch disease).
Fever, fatigue, and malaise.
Headaches and migraines.
Muscle aches and joint pain.
Skin rashes or lesions.
Neurological symptoms such as cognitive impairment, mood changes, and neuropathy.
How is Bartonella infection diagnosed?
Bartonella infection is diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history, and laboratory tests. Diagnostic tests may include blood tests to detect specific antibodies against Bartonella or PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests to detect the presence of Bartonella DNA in blood or tissue samples.
Can Bartonella infection be treated?
Yes, Bartonella infection can be treated. Antibiotics, such as azithromycin, doxycycline, or rifampin, are commonly used to treat Bartonella infections. The choice of antibiotic and treatment duration may vary depending on the severity of the infection and individual factors. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Many people also find remedy with herbals and alternative therapies.
Can Bartonella infection be transmitted from person to person?
While rare, person-to-person transmission of Bartonella can occur through blood transfusions, organ transplants, or vertical transmission from mother to fetus during pregnancy. However, the primary mode of transmission is through bites or scratches from infected animals.
Are there complications associated with Bartonella infection?
Bartonella infection can lead to complications, particularly if left untreated or in individuals with weakened immune systems. Possible complications include persistent or recurrent symptoms, endocarditis (inflammation of the heart lining), encephalitis (brain inflammation), and ocular manifestations.
How can Bartonella infection be prevented?
To reduce the risk of Bartonella infection, it is important to:
Avoid scratches or bites from animals, especially cats, fleas and ticks.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling animals.
Use appropriate flea and tick control measures for pets.
Avoid close contact with stray or feral cats.
Is Bartonella infection more common in certain geographic areas?
Bartonella infections occur worldwide, but the prevalence may vary in different geographic regions. Certain Bartonella species may be more prevalent in specific areas. It is important to consult with local healthcare providers or public health agencies for information on Bartonella prevalence in your region.
Can Bartonella infection be chronic or recurrent?
Bartonella infection can sometimes become chronic or recurrent, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems. Chronic or recurrent Bartonella infection may require extended or repeated courses of antibiotics for effective treatment.
Can Bartonella infection be co-infections with other tick-borne diseases?
Yes, Bartonella infection can coexist with other tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease or Babesiosis. Co-infections can complicate the clinical presentation and may require a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan by a healthcare professional experienced in tick-borne illnesses.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and management of Bartonella infection.