Factors associated with the rapid emergence of zoonotic Bartonella infections

Abstract

-The present manuscript reviews the factors associated with the emergence of these zoonotic pathogens, including better diagnostic tools and methods to identify these fastidious bacteria, host immunosuppression (caused by infectious agents, cancer, aging or induced by immunosuppressive drugs), the interaction of co-infection by several infectious agents that may enhanced the pathogenecity of these bacteria, increased outdoor activity leading to exposure to wildlife reservoirs or vectors, poverty and low income associated with infestation by various ectoparasites, such as body lice and finally the dispersal of Bartonellae around the world. Furthermore, a description of the main epidemiological and clinical features of zoonotic Bartonellae is given. Finally, the main means for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of these diseases are presented.

BartonellaSpp. in Pets and Effect on Human Health

“…henselae from a domestic cat in the early 1990s, several studies have been conducted worldwide to determine the importance of cats as a reservoir of this bacterium (reviewed in [2]). Prevalence of infection varies considerably among cat populations (strays or pets) with an increasing gradient from low in cold climates (0% in Norway) to high in warm and humid climates (68% in the Philippines) ( 2 ). At least 2 genotypes have been identified and designated Houston-1 (type I) and Marseille (previously BATF) (type II) ( 1 , 2 ).…”

“…Prevalence of infection varies considerably among cat populations (strays or pets) with an increasing gradient from low in cold climates (0% in Norway) to high in warm and humid climates (68% in the Philippines) ( 2 ). At least 2 genotypes have been identified and designated Houston-1 (type I) and Marseille (previously BATF) (type II) ( 1 , 2 ). The respective prevalence of these 2 genotypes varies considerably among cat populations from different areas.…”

“…clarridgeiae , B . washoensis , and B. elizabethae ( 2 ). Recently, 2 cases of endocarditis caused by B. quintana were diagnosed (P. Kelly et al, unpub.…”

“…data). As with human disease, the clinical spectrum of Bartonella infection in dogs is expanding ( 2 ). Fleas play a major role in the transmission of feline Bartonella ( 7 ), but other potential vectors, such as ticks and biting flies have been recently identified to harbor Bartonella DNA, including B. henselae ( 8 , 9 ).…”

“…This article provides an update on the etiologic agents, new clinical features, and evolving epidemiologic characteristics of these emerging zoonoses. We will not discuss the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Bartonella infections, as several recent review articles have been written on this subject ( 1 , 2 , 10 ). …”