About Bartonella H.:
Bartonella henselae are a kind of protein that can enter any organism by way of a scratch wound inflicted by a kitten. After that initial scratch, the protein spreads by cutaneous lymphatic vessels to the draining lymph nodes, which then become incredibly enlarged in the latter stages of what is colloquially known as cat scratch disease. The bartonella henselae has a worldwide distribution, with cats of both the feral and healthy variety being the primary carriers of the protein, which transfers from cat to cat primarily via fleas.
Bartonella H. Function & Structure
CSD can occur in people of all ages as a result of these cat scratches, but it is known to affect children most of all, with a particular focus on those under the age of around 10. It is also much more likely to occur during the colder months in autumn and winter. There are an estimated 25,000 cases of it every year in the US alone. Most significantly perhaps, it is the leading cause of chronic lymphadenopathy in children and adolescents alike, which is in other words an enlarging of the lymph nodes which persists for a long time.
Bartonella H. Other Conditions
The bartonella henselae can also cause transient self-limiting lymphangitis, especially in immunocompetent individuals, as a result of the cat scratch disease. If there is also a condition present such as AIDS, these pathogens can also cause a persistent skin condition which is known as bacillary angiomatosis. In this condition, papules develop which can then turn into larger lesions or nodules if left alone.