BARTONELLOSIS SYMPTOMS |
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Bartonellosis is transmitted by the
nocturnal sandfly and arises from infection with B. bacilliformis.
The sandfly, Lutzomyia verrucarum, dines on human blood and, in so
doing, can inject bacteria into the bloodstream. The sandfly is
found only in certain areas of the Peruvian Andes; other,
as-yet-unidentified vectors are suspected in Ecuador and Colombia.
Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria latch onto red blood cells
(erythrocytes), burrow into the cells, and reproduce. In the
process, up to 90% of the host's erythrocytes are destroyed, causing
severe hemolytic anemia. The anemia is accompanied by high fever,
muscle and joint pain, delirium, and possibly coma.
Two to eight weeks after the acute phase, an infected individual
develops verruga peruana. However, individuals may exhibit the
characteristic lesions without ever experiencing the acute phase.
Left untreated, the lesions may last months or years. These lesions
resemble blood-filled blisters, up to 1.6 in (4 cm) in diameter, and
appear primarily on the head and limbs. They can be painful to the
touch and may bleed or ulcerate. |
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