Definition:
Bacillary angiomatosis (BA) is a bacterial disease brought about by two kinds of bacteria under the Bartonella family: Bartonella henselae and Bartonella quintana. The infection is usually characterized by tumor-like lesions in the skin and other internal organs of the body, and can manifest in people affected by AIDS.
Diagnosis:
The disease can be diagnosed based on the present nodules on the skin, physical examination as well as skin biopsy.
Treatment:
BA can be treated by antibiotics such as erythromycin.
Symptoms and Signs:
Persons with BA usually experience the development of red nodules in the skin, purple lichenoid plaques, as well as ulcers that lead to swelling and irritation. Internal body organs such as the liver and spleen are greatly affected.
Causes:
The disease can be transmitted to humans through a cat scratch or bite; infestation of ticks, fleas and lice can also spread the bacteria to humans.
