|
|
|
There is now preliminary evidence that certain
species of ticks may play a role in the transmission of the
bacteria Bartonella spp. to humans. Further investigation
is still needed to determine how important a vector and what role
ticks play in the transmission of Bartonella spp. Species
of Bartonella have been isolated from ticks. Certain
species of Bartonella have been associated with disease in
humans, most notably, Cat Scratch disease.
Severe and chronic infections can occur especially in
immunocompromised hosts.
|
Vector:
|
Domesticated cats (Felis domesticus, Felis
catus)
Cat Flea (Ctenocephalides felis)
Body Louse (Pediculus humanus corporis)
Tick species ( Ixodes spp. & Dermacentor spp.)
|
Causative Agent:
|
Bartonella bacilliformis
Bartonella quintana
Bartonella henselae (cat scratch disease)
|
Endemic Area:
|
Worldwide, not widespread
|
Incubation Period:
|
Variable, 3-14 days from inoculation to lesion,
5-50 days from inoculation to lymphadenapathy
|
Classic Symptoms:
|
Can vary from asymptomatic to severe illness,
fever, mild neurological signs, granulomatous lymphadenitis, red
papular lesion after a vector bite, scratch or lick.
|
Lab Test(s):
|
IFA assay (with a clinical picture)
Histopathology of involved Lymph nodes
PCR
|
|
