The downloadable "From Cat Scratch Disease to Bartonellosis" brochure has been updated. Find out about the process that led to the updated brochure and download the new brochure to share:
GALAXYDX.COM
New Educational Resource: Downloadable “From Cat Scratch Disease to Bartonellosis” Brochure
#Bartonella henselae has been found in arctic foxes where there are no known vectors. Scientists suspect the C.V. vagabundus flea may be transferring the bacteria from geese. NEW/FREE: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32928287/
Cooler weather isn't the all clear for #LymeDisease. Ticks are still out and cases are on the rise in areas such as the mid-Ohio Valley region.
NEWSANDSENTINEL.COM
Mid-Ohio Valley sees rise in Lyme Disease
The "host response," how an individual's immune system responds to a pathogen, is responsible for part of the variation in how diseases differ in different people. For COVID-19, 14% of cases of severe disease may be explained by genetic variants in patients that are described in two recent papers. These variants affect how the patient responds to the pathogen early in the infection.
SCIENCEMAG.ORG
Hidden immune weakness found in 14% of gravely ill COVID-19 patients
Both domestic and wild animals, especially birds, are becoming ill from the smoke arising from wildfires in the US West. The fires are having a variety of effects as the loss of rodents and other small mammals may also be affecting the ability of birds of prey to find food.
NEWS.VIN.COM
Fire, smoke take toll on domestic animals, wildlife
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus is a rare condition in which fluid collects in the brain, but the overall cerebrospinal fluid pressure does not change. It can cause walking and balance problems as well as cognitive problems. It can arise without a known cause, or be caused by an injury, a tumor, or an infection.
In this case study, a man who was slowly losing his balance and developing cognitive issues was found to have this condition. In his case, it was caused by #neuroborreliosis (#Lymedisease affecting the central nervous system) and resolved with treatment.
This new case is free to read online.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Normal pressure hydrocephalus secondary to Lyme disease, a case report and review of seven reported cases - PubMed
Bats have been host to a variety of distressing zoonotic pathogens and carry a variety of #Bartonella species. The pathogens they carry that do spill over into the human population share traits in that they are often highly fatal, but not very highly infectious. Their unique immunology may be the reason why they share pathogens with these particular features, and a clue to how to fight these diseases.
SCIENCE.SCIENCEMAG.ORG
Contextualizing bats as viral reservoirs
The American mink is from North America and is an invasive species in South America. In Chile, the animals were found to carry a #Mycoplasma species and a #Bartonella species similar to B. clarridgeiae. NEW:
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Molecular survey of Bartonella spp. and hemoplasmas in American minks (Neovison vison) - PubMed
Early #LymeDisease symptoms and #COVID19 symptoms can be very similar. Seek medical attention for an appropriate diagnosis.
https://www.news4jax.com/health/2020/10/01/taking-on-ticks-some-lyme-disease-symptoms-can-be-mistaken-for-covid-19/
Announcing our brand evolution - sample enrichment platform that goes beyond the limits of detection. Find out more: https://www.prlog.org/12841447.html
Severe COVID-19 causes changes to immune B cells that are similar to changes seen in severe cases of Lupus. These changes may be related to the fatigue and other symptoms of "long haul COVID." African-American patients are the most likely to show these changes in both conditions.
While this particular change seems unique to COVID-19, long-term changes to the immune system are associated with other infectious diseases and may be related to similar long-term symptoms.
NEWS.EMORY.EDU
Immune cell activation in severe COVID-19 resembles lupus
The neuropsychiatric symptoms of tick-bite disease can be puzzling for patients and providers. What is likely to related to the pathogen, and what may be unrelated symptoms? More research on these trends is needed. Adding to what is known, a review of patient records in Denmark found that patients with #LymeDisease were more likely to receive a variety of psychiatric medications than the general population. These patients were not more likely to experience a psychiatric hospitalization than the general population.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Assessment of the Risk of Psychiatric Disorders, Use of Psychiatric Hospitals, and Receipt of Psychiatric Medication Among Patients With Lyme Neuroborreliosis in Denmark - PubMed
The immune system is complicated, with symptoms of infection coming from the host response as well as from the pathogen. Unraveling what is happening with COVID-19 shines light on other infections:
THEATLANTIC.COM
Immunology Is Where Intuition Goes to Die
A review of Bartonella species infections in the Top End of Australia found an incidence lower than in the US but a higher rate of hospitalization. The presentations were quite varied, with serious symptoms more likely to be seen in adults.
This new paper is not free to read on the internet but may be available at your library."
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Clinical Manifestations Associated with Bartonella henselae Infection in a Tropical Region - PubMed
COVID-19 is causing a rush of research into why some people tolerate infections better than others. What is being discovered and how might this apply to tick-borne disease? NEW from Galaxy Diagnostics:
GALAXYDX.COM
Some people tolerate infections better than others. Why?
Immune response to a pathogen is a complicated dance, as different parts of the immune system work together. One part of the immune system may be active at the beginning of an infection, then other parts of the immune system take over. When the partners lose their place, chaos follows. This "immune dysregulation" may explain severe COVID-19.
SCIENCEMAG.ORG
An ‘uncoordinated’ immune response may explain why COVID-19 strikes some hard, particularly the elderly
The immune system generally goes through a process of an immediate response to a pathogen, followed by the development of long-term immunity. However, #LymeDisease has tricks that suppress the effectiveness of the immediate response and the development of long-term immunity. This creates an immune system dysregulation that can increase arthritis, as shown in research in mice.
FRONTIERSIN.ORG
Mechanisms of Dysregulated Antibody Response in Lyme Disease
We can learn about #Bartonella from research on its close cousin, #Brucella. Find out more, NEW from Galaxy Diagnostics:
GALAXYDX.COM
Bartonella and Brucella: Cousins in the Bacteria Kingdom
Galaxy Diagnostic's new test for Lyme borreliosis is being prepared for launch. Stay tuned for more information coming soon!
Sleep deprivation affects the immune system, but it's hard to quantify. In a study published earlier this year, researchers found that shorter sleep was associated with lower antibody response to the flu vaccine.
LINK.SPRINGER.COM
Temporal Links Between Self-Reported Sleep and Antibody Responses to the Influenza Vaccine
#Bartonella henselae is sometimes called "cat-scratch disease," but it is vectors like fleas that spread it. A retrospective study of hospital records found human infections associated with a variety of animals.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Not cat-scratch disease: Bartonella henselae neuroretinitis associated with non-feline pet mammals - PubMed
#Borrelia burgdorferi constantly changes surface proteins to evade the immune system. Some infected people nonetheless have an expected course of immune response. Other people develop a dysregulated immune response, where immune cells do not behave as expected and may even be found in locations in the body that are unexpected. This article puts together information from mouse studies and humans to review what is known about this kind of #LymeDisease-associated immune dysregulation.
FRONTIERSIN.ORG
Mechanisms of Dysregulated Antibody Response in Lyme Disease
5% of dementia cases are caused by autoimmune disease. This dementia can be treated and patients return to baseline, if it is identified. But cases are missed, especially in patients over 60 years old.
THEGUARDIAN.COM
The dementia that can be cured
Tularemia in the US is a tick-borne disease in about half of cases. In Europe it is associated with contaminated water and mosquito bites. Caused by the bacteria Francisella tularensis, cases have been slowly increasing.
F. tularensis' relationship with ticks is very different from B. burgdorferi, the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. F. tularensis cannot tolerate the blood iron products that B. burgdorferi has evolved to tolerate. Consequently, F. tularensis may survive better in ticks that don't have easy access to a meal, such as overwintering ticks.
Find out more:
MDPI.COM
Mechanisms Affecting the Acquisition, Persistence and Transmission of Francisella tularensis in Ticks
What does Lyme neuroborreliosis look like? A new review that is free to access provides images and discusses the associated findings.
NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Today is #OneHealthDay. Learn more about what #OneHealth is and how it can be used to reduce the occurrence and impact of "spill-over" events like SAR-CoV-2. NEW from Galaxy Diagnostics:
GALAXYDX.COM
The One Health Movement: A Necessary Approach to Disease Prevention
Galaxy co-founders Dr. Amanda Elam and Dr. Ed Breitschwerdt had the recent pleasure of working with a team of leading clinicians and tick-borne disease advocates on a project for the first Invisible International Hackathon. The goal of the Hackathon is to build teams and solutions to address the low awareness and pressing need for better clinical tools for chronic diseases linked to infection. The recording of the virtual showcase and award ceremony can be viewed here:
YOUTUBE.COM
Educate & Elevate: 2020 Virtual Hackathon Showcase & Awards
Galaxy Diagnostics co-founder Dr. Breitschwerdt was among the authors on a paper describing a new #Rickettsia species found in dogs in the US. It is not yet known if this species infects people.
NEWS.NCSU.EDU
Researchers Identify New Rickettsia Species in Dogs
In an unusual case, a man developed blindness due to a #Bartonella species infection in his heart that caused an embolus to the retinal artery. The man also had kidney failure. His heart and kidneys improved with treatment but he remained blind in one eye. NEW:
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Systemic Bartonellosis Manifesting With Endocarditis and Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis - PubMed
One of the tricks vector-borne pathogens have is taking lipids from their hosts for their own use. Some intracellular pathogens use host lipid cloaking to evade the immune system and enter the cell. Find out more about the tricks of a variety of bacteria and parasites here:
ELIFESCIENCES.ORG
Lipid hijacking: a unifying theme in vector-borne diseases
A young woman who seemed to have developed a second case of COVID had severe heart symptoms. A heart biopsy revealed she also had parvovirus. Moving beyond the one pathogen one disease model is familiar to veterinarians but is newer to physicians. It's discussed a lot in tick-borne disease, but it has applications across pathogens.
(Reading the case requires a free Medscape login.)
MEDSCAPE.COM
Med Student's Cardiac Crisis a COVID-Era Medical Mystery
In a new study, mice infected with #Bartonella henselae showed more likelihood to remove their paw from a pressure application than mice that were not infected. This tendency to remove their paw from the pressure test tends to correlate with how the mouse would respond to a pain stimulus; it indicates the mouse has become more sensitive. This article is free to access online.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Bartonella henselae infection induces a persistent mechanical hypersensitivity in mice - PubMed
A dog trainer was evaluated for #COVID19 and he continued to have symptoms despite testing negative repeatedly. After further inquiry into his animal exposure he was diagnosed with murine typhus and recovered with antibiotic treatment. The case study shows the importance of considering other causes of fever during the pandemic, especially when there is animal exposure.
CASEREPORTS.BMJ.COM
casereports.bmj.com
A Yale team screened more than 1,000 proteins created by the human body against #Borrelia burgdorferi. One was found to play a role in killing the pathogen. Further research in mice that did not have the gene to make the protein found that these mice had more bacteria and more immune dysfunction. This finding may help explain why people vary in their response to Lyme disease so much and how to better treat it.
NEWS.YALE.EDU
Yale scientists identify protein that protects against Lyme disease
61% of US residents have changed their plans for Thanksgiving, and many will be spending more time outdoors. Remember that even in winter you need to protect you and your pets from fleas and ticks. #healthypetshealthyfamilies
GALAXYDX.COM
Will you be spending time outdoors over the holidays due to COVID-19?
In celebration of the US Thanksgiving holiday, Galaxy Diagnostics will be closed on Thursday (11/26) and Friday (11/27). After today (Wednesday), samples should be properly stored and held for overnight shipment until the following Monday (11/30). If there are questions regarding sample storage and/or shipping protocol, please call our office at 919-313-9672. We wish you and your families a happy holiday!
#Bartonella bacilliformis contains small non-coding RNAs (sRNAs) that may affect how genes are expressed in different environments, allowing the bacteria to thrive in both the sandfly and the human host. NEW:
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Novel small RNAs expressed by Bartonella bacilliformis under multiple conditions reveal potential mechanisms for persistence in the sand fly vector and human host - PubMed
A retrospective study of patients with eye symptoms caused by #Bartonella henselae found a range of symptoms and not just neuroretinitis. This new study is free to read online.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
The clinical spectrum of ocular bartonellosis: a retrospective study at a tertiary centre in Malaysia - PubMed
As temperatures rise, brown dog ticks change their preferred host from dogs to people. This increases the risk of #RockyMountainSpottedFever during high temperatures.
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/high-temperatures-make-some-ticks-pick-humans-over-dogs-180976372/
A study in mice suggests that genetic immunodeficiency may reduce the effectiveness of doxycycline against #LymeDisease, though in the mice an antibiotic combination restored effectiveness.
The paper is not available to read online but may be available at your library.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Genetic background amplifies the effect of immunodeficiency in antibiotic efficacy against Borrelia burgdorferi - PubMed
Tick-borne disease coinfections are often thought of as simultaneous, but with the number of ticks encountered by people, sequential infections are also part of the coinfection story.
A new overview of coinfections discusses this additional issue. The paper is not available to read online but may be available at your library.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Tick-borne diseases and co-infection: Current considerations - PubMed
Researchers at the University of Guelph G. Magnotta Lyme Disease Research Lab who have done work with #Lyme borreliosis and Nanotrap testing are now also researching #longCOVID.
CBC.CA
Guelph researchers look for answers on lasting misery of coronavirus long-haulers | CBC News
Doxycycline is an antibiotic, but it has also been noted to protect from sepsis beyond what its impact on pathogens would suggest. A new mouse study suggests that it affects mitochondrial function in a way that increases disease tolerance.
SCIENCEDIRECT.COM
Tetracycline Antibiotics Induce Host-Dependent Disease Tolerance to Infection
In a new study with Galaxy Diagnostics co-founder Dr. Breitschwerdt among the authors, laser scanning microscopy was used to evaluate the presence of #Bartonella spp. bacteria in skin striae distensae-like lesions in three patients with neurological and psychiatric symptoms. In one of the patients, bacteria were found in the striae though the patient had been treated and PCR negative for more than a year.
ONLINELIBRARY.WILEY.COM
Imaging analysis of Bartonella species in the skin using single‐photon and multi‐photon (second harmonic generation) laser scanning microscopy
In a new study with Galaxy Diagnostics co-founders Dr. Breitschwerdt and Dr. Maggi among the authors, #Bartonella associated cutaneous lesions were investigated in people with neuropsychiatric symptoms. The study enrolled 33 participants, of whom 29 had laboratory test results that supported a diagnosis of bartonellosis. 24 reported concurrent cutaneous lesions since neuropsychiatric symptom onset.
The study lists the common neurological and non-neurological symptoms reported. The majority of the cases had laboratory confirmation from BAPGM (the patented growth medium used at Galaxy Diagnostics) with ddPCR (a method licensed by Galaxy Diagnostics that divides and tests samples in many tiny droplets).
MDPI.COM
Bartonella Associated Cutaneous Lesions (BACL) in People with Neuropsychiatric Symptoms
A study in Germany looked at the rates of #LymeDisease seroconversion and seroreversion. Knowing when people who are exposed to the bacteria that causes Lyme disease start making antibodies that respond to serology tests and when that immune response wanes is important to be able to properly understand the results of seroprevalence testing. Seroprevalence tests look at a population at one point in time and have to account for these rising and falling test results across the population.
This new study is not available for free online but may be available from your library.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Dynamics of Borrelia burgdorferi-Specific Antibodies: Seroconversion and Seroreversion between Two Population-Based, Cross-Sectional Surveys among Adults in Germany - PubMed
Gizmodo article included comments from Galaxy Diagnostics co-founder Dr. Breitschwerdt on last week's NCSU publication linking #Bartonella striae and neuropsychiatric symptoms:
GIZMODO.COM
'Cat Scratch' Bacteria Linked to Psychiatric Symptoms in People
Malaria is endemic in 20% of the world and modulates other infectious disease, generally to create worsened health in the host. Due to its enormous footprint, more needs to be known about how it interacts with a host of parasites, bacteria and viruses.
The ""one pathogen one disease"" model that had led medical training is falling away in light of the more complex reality that people experience multiple infections over their lives and these infections interact to lead to a variety of symptoms and outcomes.
NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Galaxy Diagnostics co-founder Dr. Breitschwerdt had an opportunity to answer some questions from MedicalResearch about the new NCSU study on #Bartonella infections associated with skin and neuropsychiatric symptoms: https://medicalresearch.com/infections/vector-borne-bartonella-organisms-associated-with-skin-and-neuropsychiatric-symptoms/56177/
MEDICALRESEARCH.COM
Vector-Borne Bartonella Organisms Associated with Skin and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms
A new overview of the innate and immune response to #Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato provides a list of innate immune mediators as well as an extensive description of adaptive immune response. The overview in PDF form is free to read.
CAISTER.COM
www.caister.com
Galaxy Diagnostics will be closed from December 24th through January 1st. Last day to ship before the break is December 22nd. Find out more here:
https://www.galaxydx.com/galaxy-2020-holiday-closing/
GALAXYDX.COM
2020 Holiday Hours
Learn more about Galaxy Diagnostics' innovative Lyme Borrelioisis Nanotrap Urine Test in an interview with Dr. Jennifer Miller, director of research and development. #LymeDisease
GALAXYDX.COM
Nanotrap® Urine Test Q&A with Galaxy’s Director of Research and Development
An outbreak of Mycobacterium bovis in pet cats in England and Scotland was associated with a commercial raw food product. Five people were positive, one who required treatment, and the outbreak put regional cattle herds at risk. This is a #OneHealth example of how the health of people and animals is interrelated and protecting pets from infection also protects families and livelihoods.
ONLINELIBRARY.WILEY.COM
Feline tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium bovis infection of domestic UK cats associated with feeding a commercial raw food diet
A new overview of the innate and immune response to #Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato provides a list of innate immune mediators as well as an extensive description of adaptive immune response. The overview in PDF form is free to read.
CAISTER.COM
www.caister.com
Galaxy Diagnostics will be closed from December 24th through January 1st. Last day to ship before the break is December 22nd. Find out more here:
https://www.galaxydx.com/galaxy-2020-holiday-closing/
GALAXYDX.COM
2020 Holiday Hours
Learn more about Galaxy Diagnostics' innovative Lyme Borrelioisis Nanotrap Urine Test in an interview with Dr. Jennifer Miller, director of research and development. #LymeDisease
GALAXYDX.COM
Nanotrap® Urine Test Q&A with Galaxy’s Director of Research and Development
An outbreak of Mycobacterium bovis in pet cats in England and Scotland was associated with a commercial raw food product. Five people were positive, one who required treatment, and the outbreak put regional cattle herds at risk. This is a #OneHealth example of how the health of people and animals is interrelated and protecting pets from infection also protects families and livelihoods.
ONLINELIBRARY.WILEY.COM
Feline tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium bovis infection of domestic UK cats associated with feeding a commercial raw food diet
A new overview of the innate and immune response to #Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato provides a list of innate immune mediators as well as an extensive description of adaptive immune response. The overview in PDF form is free to read.
CAISTER.COM
www.caister.com
Galaxy Diagnostics will be closed from December 24th through January 1st. Last day to ship before the break is December 22nd. Find out more here:
https://www.galaxydx.com/galaxy-2020-holiday-closing/
GALAXYDX.COM
2020 Holiday Hours
Learn more about Galaxy Diagnostics' innovative Lyme Borrelioisis Nanotrap Urine Test in an interview with Dr. Jennifer Miller, director of research and development. #LymeDisease
GALAXYDX.COM
Nanotrap® Urine Test Q&A with Galaxy’s Director of Research and Development
An outbreak of Mycobacterium bovis in pet cats in England and Scotland was associated with a commercial raw food product. Five people were positive, one who required treatment, and the outbreak put regional cattle herds at risk. This is a #OneHealth example of how the health of people and animals is interrelated and protecting pets from infection also protects families and livelihoods.
ONLINELIBRARY.WILEY.COM
Feline tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium bovis infection of domestic UK cats associated with feeding a commercial raw food diet
At the end of last year we discussed the new Nanotrap Urine Test for the diagnosis of Lyme disease with Dr. Jennifer Miller from our laboratory. Find out more about the new test being offered by Galaxy Diagnostics:
GALAXYDX.COM
Nanotrap® Urine Test Q&A with Galaxy’s Director of Research and Development
While SARS-COV-2 has created a pandemic for humans, it has also created a pandemic for mink. After this article was written, an infected wild mink was found in Utah. #OneHealth
THEATLANTIC.COM
The Mink Pandemic Is No Joke
A small number of COVID-19 patients without previous psychiatric symptoms have developed psychotic episodes. While some cases overlap ICU psychosis, other cases have occurred in relatively mild illness.
In addition to this report, a call for cases of children developing encephalomyelitis-like conditions has found 38 cases.
ABC7NEWS.COM
UCSF doctor describes rare psychotic episodes occurring in COVID-19 patients worldwide
In a normal immune response, dendritic cells grab antigens and bring them to killer T-cells. The killer T-cell recognizes the antigen as not part of healthy human proteins and destroys it. New research shows how #LymeDisease interferes with the relationship between these cells, disrupting that immune response.
https://www.healtheuropa.eu/new-study-shows-lyme-disease-alters-immune-system/104461/
New research has found that ticks have a gene they acquired from bacteria that protects the ticks from common skin bacteria. We think of ticks as dirty, but ticks have a very dangerous lifestyle: they have to bite bacteria-laden hosts like humans! This gene makes their interaction with these hosts less dangerous for them and may also protect them from the bacteria that they carry, including the bacteria that causes #LymeDisease.
https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2020/12/419216/lyme-disease-ticks-produce-antibiotic-protects-them-human-skin-bacteria
People have picked up a variety of hobbies during the pandemic, and one of them is citizen science projects. Citizen scientists have made serious discoveries over the last year.
VOX.COM
Citizen science is booming during the pandemic
At Galaxy Diagnostics we are often asked what the risk of vector-borne disease is. Unfortunately, it's not an easy question to answer. In our NEW blog post we discuss why risk isn't one size fits all.
GALAXYDX.COM
Tick-and flea-borne disease risk is not one size fits all
A study in mice found that #LymeDisease caused permanent changes to how cells in the heart worked. This infection "memory" decreased the function of mitochondria and increased inflammation. This new article is free to read online.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Borrelia burgdorferi infection induces long-term memory-like responses in macrophages with tissue-wide consequences in the heart - PubMed
A 9-year-old went camping and was bitten by ""numerous"" ticks. When she was brought to a hospital, she was in respiratory failure and required intubation, and then her heart stopped because of Lyme carditis. Her heart was able to be restarted and she was put on ECMO while being treated for #LymeDisease. After two weeks, she had a successful removal of ECMO but subsequently worsened and died.
Lyme carditis can be fatal if it causes the heart to stop before it is diagnosed. If it is diagnosed, a pacemaker can be used while the patient recovers with antibiotics. While more cases are being seen, including in young people, it is rare for Lyme carditis to be fatal after treatment.
JOURNALS.LWW.COM
423: A Rare Pediatric Case of Fatal Lyme Carditis Requiring ... : Critical Care Medicine
Antibody decrease following an infection doesn't necessarily mean the rest of the immune system has "forgotten" the pathogen. New research looks at antibodies, memory B cells and T cells after COVID-19. Each of the cells analyzed had different rates of increase and decrease following the infection. This paper is free to read online.
SCIENCE.SCIENCEMAG.ORG
Immunological memory to SARS-CoV-2 assessed for up to 8 months after infection
The genetics of #Bartonella species and strains indicates that bats were the host of the ancestors of all species that infect mammals today. This shift from bats into other mammals likely started around 62 million years ago. The researchers predict that research will likely find bats in the history of other pathogens that target mammals.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Bats are key hosts in the radiation of mammal-associated Bartonella bacteria - PubMed
212 people who failed treatment for #LymeDisease were studied and found to fit into three subgroups. Further research may help tease apart the complexity of the highly varied symptoms in people with ongoing symptoms.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Symptom heterogeneity and patient subgroup classification among US patients with post-treatment Lyme disease: an observational study - PubMed
A man in Florida with fever, weakness and flu-like symptoms went to a hospital in Florida. It was 10 weeks after a visit to Massachusetts, but he was found to have #Babesia microti. The case is a reminder to be aware of tick-borne disease risks outside the expected area and further after the expected time to cause symptoms.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
A Case Report of Babesiosis Seen Outside of its Endemic Area and Incubation Period - PubMed
People have picked up a variety of hobbies during the pandemic, and one of them is citizen science projects. Citizen scientists have made serious discoveries over the last year.
VOX.COM
Citizen science is booming during the pandemic
At Galaxy Diagnostics we are often asked what the risk of vector-borne disease is. Unfortunately, it's not an easy question to answer. In our NEW blog post we discuss why risk isn't one size fits all.
GALAXYDX.COM
Tick-and flea-borne disease risk is not one size fits all
A young sickly raccoon was euthanized in Canada. Common infectious diseases were ruled out. An electron microscope found bacteria in damaged areas of the kidneys. These bacteria were genetically identified as a strain of #Bartonella taylorii most commonly found in shrews in Europe. This case is a reminder that pathogens can easily hitch a ride around our interconnected world and be found in unexpected places.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Lesions associated with Bartonella taylorii-like bacterium infection in a free-ranging, young-of-the-year raccoon from Prince Edward Island, Canada - PubMed
A study of shelter cats in South Korea revealed protozoa and microsporidia, some not been previously seen in the country. Domestic animals can be a sentinel for pathogens they share in the community. Because of this study, researchers became aware of species of parasites not previously known to be in the country. Likewise, improving the health of domestic animals is important to the health of humans and other animals that share their pathogens. #OneHealth
MYVETCANDY.COM
Identification of feline zoonotic protozoa and microsporidia in South Korea | Vet Candy
#OneHealth month in 2021 is very different- COVID-19 has made the public very aware of zoonotic diseases and the needs for one health solutions to prevent future pandemics. What resources are available to meet their need for more information? Find resources for ages 6 to adult:
GALAXYDX.COM
A New Kind of One Health Month
The genetics of #Bartonella species and strains indicates that bats were the host of the ancestors of all species that infect mammals today. This shift from bats into other mammals likely started around 62 million years ago. The researchers predict that research will likely find bats in the history of other pathogens that target mammals.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Bats are key hosts in the radiation of mammal-associated Bartonella bacteria - PubMed
212 people who failed treatment for #LymeDisease were studied and found to fit into three subgroups. Further research may help tease apart the complexity of the highly varied symptoms in people with ongoing symptoms.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Symptom heterogeneity and patient subgroup classification among US patients with post-treatment Lyme disease: an observational study - PubMed
In a new study, researchers looked at cats in a high-quality community cat program. The cats received veterinary care and then were released back into the group. In this study, the researchers found zoonotic pathogens (pathogens the cats can share with humans), including #Bartonella henselae in 38% of the cats. The researchers recommended rehoming where possible rather than maintaining the cats in a community group.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Health Status of 'Community Cats' Living in the Tourist Area of the Old Town in Onomichi City, Japan - PubMed
Galaxy testing is now available through the My One Medical Source (MOMS) network. By building a national network of medical access points (MAPS), MOMS has created an online marketplace connecting those who need testing with providers who can order and collect the sample for testing by independent laboratories across the US.
MYONEMEDICALSOURCE.COM
Nanotrap Urine Test for Lyme Borreliosis - Galaxy Diagnostics
My One Medical Source
January 27 at 3:44 PM ·
One of our Founding Lab partners, Galaxy Diagnostics, has launched the Nanotrap® Urine Test for Lyme Borreliosis. Check out this unique innovation in our latest #blog. #LymeDisease #Galaxy #MOMS #Lab
https://www.myonemedicalsource.com/2021/01/27/lyme-borrelia-urine-test/
My One Medical Source
January 27 at 3:44 PM ·
One of our Founding Lab partners, Galaxy Diagnostics, has launched the Nanotrap® Urine Test for Lyme Borreliosis. Check out this unique innovation in our latest #blog. #LymeDisease #Galaxy #MOMS #Lab
https://www.myonemedicalsource.com/2021/01/27/lyme-borrelia-urine-test/
Researchers looked at how timber harvest in Santa Cruz County, California, affects tick-borne disease risk. While the number of ticks carrying pathogens did not change very much, the prevalence of tick species changed with more I. pacificus ticks seen, and they continued to increase throughout the study. More research like this is needed to understand how ecology and human health interact. #OneHealth
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Impacts of Timber Harvest on Communities of Small Mammals, Ticks, and Tick-Borne Pathogens in a High-Risk Landscape in Northern California - PubMed
Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) cause autoimmune damage to the kidneys. In rare cases, they have also been associated with #Bartonella species infection. Case reports are published from time to time and a new one has come up this year. In this case, treatment with antibiotics improved the kidney function.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
A Case of Glomerulonephritis Caused by Bartonella spp. Infective Endocarditis: The Difficulty and Importance of Differentiation from Anti-neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-related Rapidly Progressive Glomerulonephritis - PubMed
A young sickly raccoon was euthanized in Canada. Common infectious diseases were ruled out. An electron microscope found bacteria in damaged areas of the kidneys. These bacteria were genetically identified as a strain of #Bartonella taylorii most commonly found in shrews in Europe. This case is a reminder that pathogens can easily hitch a ride around our interconnected world and be found in unexpected places.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Lesions associated with Bartonella taylorii-like bacterium infection in a free-ranging, young-of-the-year raccoon from Prince Edward Island, Canada - PubMed
190 animals in health facilities, schools and petting zoos in Italy were examined for #zoonotic pathogens. 31% were infected with zoonotic parasites. More screening of these animals for zoonotic pathogens was recommended.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Surveillance of Zoonotic Parasites in Animals Involved in Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs) - PubMed
Find out more about the launch of Bartonella Digital ePCR, the most sensitive direct detection for #Bartonella species infections.
GALAXYDX.COM
Bartonella Digital ePCR™ is Now Available!
Today Galaxy Diagnostics announced the launch of Bartonella Digital ePCR, the most sensitive test available for direct detection of #Bartonella species infections.
https://www.prlog.org/12856275-galaxy-diagnostics-launches-the-most-sensitive-test-available-for-direct-detection-of-cat-scratch-disease.html
In a new study, researchers looked at cats in a high-quality community cat program. The cats received veterinary care and then were released back into the group. In this study, the researchers found zoonotic pathogens (pathogens the cats can share with humans), including #Bartonella henselae in 38% of the cats. The researchers recommended rehoming where possible rather than maintaining the cats in a community group.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Health Status of 'Community Cats' Living in the Tourist Area of the Old Town in Onomichi City, Japan - PubMed
Galaxy testing is now available through the My One Medical Source (MOMS) network. By building a national network of medical access points (MAPS), MOMS has created an online marketplace connecting those who need testing with providers who can order and collect the sample for testing by independent laboratories across the US.
MYONEMEDICALSOURCE.COM
Nanotrap Urine Test for Lyme Borreliosis - Galaxy Diagnostics
My One Medical Source
January 27 at 3:44 PM ·
One of our Founding Lab partners, Galaxy Diagnostics, has launched the Nanotrap® Urine Test for Lyme Borreliosis. Check out this unique innovation in our latest #blog. #LymeDisease #Galaxy #MOMS #Lab
https://www.myonemedicalsource.com/2021/01/27/lyme-borrelia-urine-test/
My One Medical Source
January 27 at 3:44 PM ·
One of our Founding Lab partners, Galaxy Diagnostics, has launched the Nanotrap® Urine Test for Lyme Borreliosis. Check out this unique innovation in our latest #blog. #LymeDisease #Galaxy #MOMS #Lab
https://www.myonemedicalsource.com/2021/01/27/lyme-borrelia-urine-test/
Opportunistic infections are sometimes caused by microbes we've lived with for thousands of years. When do they make us sick? Find out more, NEW from Galaxy Diagnostics: https://www.galaxydx.com/bartonella-and-opportunistic-pathogens/
GALAXYDX.COM
Three Examples of Opportunistic Pathogens
Researchers studying mosquitoes in central Europe found a small amount of #Bartonella species positive mosquitoes in two species (A. vexans - mean prevalence 0.1% and C. pipiens - mean prevalence 0.3%). They also found a higher amount of bacteria in A. maculipennis group mosquitoes - mean prevalence 27.2%. More research is needed to better understand whether mosquitoes are competent vectors for Bartonella pathogens, meaning whether they can pick the bacteria up from one host and then infect another host.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Bartonella species in medically important mosquitoes, Central Europe - PubMed
In case you missed it: Galaxy Diagnostics testing is now available through the My One Medical Source (MOMS) network. By building a national network of medical access points (MAPS), MOMS has created an online marketplace connecting those who need testing with providers who can order and collect the sample for testing by independent laboratories across the US.
MYONEMEDICALSOURCE.COM
Nanotrap Urine Test for Lyme Borreliosis - Galaxy Diagnostics
A small study of people with psoriasis found 20% (6/30) PCR-positive for #Bartonella henselae. Interestingly, of the healthy volunteers recruited as a control group, 10% (3/30) were positive. NEW/FREE:
NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
From 2013 to 2015, a Japanese hospital tested the blood and body lice of homeless ER patients with body lice for #Bartonella quintana. Among 29 patients, 10 were IgG positive and lice on 20 were positive. The researchers concluded that homeless people with fever should be tested for B. quintana.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Detection of Bartonella quintana infection among the Homeless Population in Tokyo, Japan, from 2013-2015 - PubMed
Serology results can be confusing, what does "1:128" mean? Find out in "Antibody Titers Explained," NEW from Galaxy Diagnostics.
GALAXYDX.COM
What is an antibody titer?
In mice, scientists found that #LymeDisease bacteria grew in the dura mater (outer membrane) of the brain, causing localized inflammation that affects other structures of the brain where bacteria were not found. Previous research in mice and humans has found that immune changes and inflammation can cause central nervous system changes even when pathogens are not found in those tissues.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
A murine model of Lyme disease demonstrates that Borrelia burgdorferi colonizes the dura mater and induces inflammation in the central nervous system - PubMed
Alert: FedEx shipping affected by winter weather. Your shipment may be affected even if weather in your location and North Carolina is unaffected. Please contact us with questions about shipping or order status.
A gastroenterology practice tested patients with no other diagnosis for #tickborne diseases and SIBO, an intestinal microbe overgrowth. Three or more GI complaints was associated with twice the odds of testing positive for tick-borne disease. The odds were independent of whether the patient also had SIBO. Galaxy Diagnostics medical director Dr. Mozayeni was a co-author on this paper, which is free to read online.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Association of Presenting Symptoms With Abnormal Laboratory Values for Vector-Borne Illness - Experience in an Urban Gastroenterology Practice - PubMed
COVID-19 variants seem to arise from immune-compromised people who develop chronic infections. In a case documented in Boston, a man had a high level of infection for 5 months and developed dozens of virus mutations. Ultimately he passed away from his illness, but his story is a reminder of how the implications of chronic infection are often overlooked when it is not the typical course of disease.
NPR.ORG
Extraordinary Patient Offers Surprising Clues To Origins Of Coronavirus Variants
Patients with ACA, a skin condition associated with #Borrelia afzelii mainly in older women in Europe, had skin biopsies. Of those where bacteria were found, most were B. afzelii but a few were B. burgdorferi s.s.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans: clinical and microbiological characteristics of a cohort of 693 Slovenian patients - PubMed
A patient with dental pain had a thorough dental exam that found nothing. She then went to the ER, which ruled out a heart attack or stroke. She then developed a rash indicative of #LymeDisease and was treated with antibiotics.
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2021-02-dental-professionals-symptoms-lyme-disease.html
"The majority of doctors in the United States believe that Lyme disease is easy to diagnose and easy to treat and is severe only in rare cases. However, both the scientific evidence and the experience of patients demonstrate that Lyme disease can often be challenging to diagnose and difficult to treat. In many cases, the symptoms can be debilitating and, in rare cases, lethal." -Dr. Montgomery McFate, a Professor at the U.S. Naval War College
16AF.AF.MIL
The Myths of Lyme Disease: Separating Fact from Fiction for Military Personnel
Serology results can be confusing, what does "1:128" mean? Find out in "Antibody Titers Explained," NEW from Galaxy Diagnostics.
GALAXYDX.COM
What is an antibody titer?
In mice, scientists found that #LymeDisease bacteria grew in the dura mater (outer membrane) of the brain, causing localized inflammation that affects other structures of the brain where bacteria were not found. Previous research in mice and humans has found that immune changes and inflammation can cause central nervous system changes even when pathogens are not found in those tissues.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
A murine model of Lyme disease demonstrates that Borrelia burgdorferi colonizes the dura mater and induces inflammation in the central nervous system - PubMed
Researchers have long wondered if #Borrelia burgdorferi can transfer to a host through the feces of ticks in the same way that #Bartonella henselae can be transferred in the feces of fleas.
In a new study, Borrelia burgdorferi ticks fed on mice while contained in a capsule. The feces of the ticks were collected from the capsule. The researchers found that they did shed the bacteria, but it was short-lived in the outside environment.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Detection of Borrelia burgdorferi DNA in tick feces provides evidence for organism shedding during vector feeding - PubMed
Dental pulp stem cells may provide an immune system sanctuary for #Bartonella quintana. The cells do not mount the same protective response that other cells do. This may allow for long-term persistent infection as the infection and fever in the rest of the body rise and fall as is characteristic of the pathogen.
SCIENCEDIRECT.COM
Human dental pulp stem cells: A sanctuary for relapsing Bartonella quintana
For #RareDiseaseDay: How can patient registries improve research and treatments for #TickBorne Diseases? NEW from Galaxy Diagnostics:
GALAXYDX.COM
Rare Disease Day 2021 – The Data We Can Collect Together
Five questions to discuss with your physician when #Bartonella species infection is suspected. #TBT from Galaxy Diagnostics: https://www.galaxydx.com/how-to-discuss-bartonellosis-with-a-doctor/
GALAXYDX.COM
5 Questions to Discuss with Your Physician When Bartonellosis Is Suspected
Patients with ACA, a skin condition associated with #Borrelia afzelii mainly in older women in Europe, had skin biopsies. Of those where bacteria were found, most were B. afzelii but a few were B. burgdorferi s.s.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans: clinical and microbiological characteristics of a cohort of 693 Slovenian patients - PubMed
Cases of #Rickettsia on the US/Mexico border are generally assumed to be caused by R. rickettsia, however, a survey of animals and their parasites found 5 known human pathogenic species and 2 additional species. Researchers suggest being aware that additional species may cause infection in this region.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Diversity of rickettsiae in domestic, synanthropic, and sylvatic mammals and their ectoparasites in a spotted fever-epidemic region at the western US-Mexico border - PubMed
Dr. Breitschwerdt, co-founder of Galaxy Diagnostics recently appeared on two ReachMD videos discussing bartonellosis and skin lesions. Find out more and view the interviews:
GALAXYDX.COM
Dr. Breitschwerdt Talks Bartonella and Skin on ReachMD
An ecological study in US oak woodlands found that diverse predators were associated with fewer ticks in rodents. Other studies from around the world have indicated that contiguous protected habitats which favor large animals are less likely to pose a #zoonotic risk to people. people.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Host infection and community composition predict vector burden - PubMed
In the spring of 2020, a patient with suspected COVID was told to isolate while awaiting test results. It was only after the patient's fever resolved and new symptoms developed that the patient had additional tests and was found to have #LymeDisease. This delay in treatment resulted in the development of several more symptoms and required more aggressive antibiotic treatment.
The authors urge more complete evaluation of nonspecific symptoms such as fever. This paper is different in that a section is reserved for the patient to express their thoughts. The patient indicates that he wished he had asked more questions in his earlier medical encounters.
HINDAWI.COM
Lyme Disease in the Era of COVID-19: A Delayed Diagnosis and Risk for Complications
Researchers have long wondered if #Borrelia burgdorferi can transfer to a host through the feces of ticks in the same way that #Bartonella henselae can be transferred in the feces of fleas.
In a new study, Borrelia burgdorferi ticks fed on mice while contained in a capsule. The feces of the ticks were collected from the capsule. The researchers found that they did shed the bacteria, but it was short-lived in the outside environment.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Detection of Borrelia burgdorferi DNA in tick feces provides evidence for organism shedding during vector feeding - PubMed
The latest #ophthamology imaging technology can be used to improve #Bartonella species infection diagnosis in both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. Find out more, NEW from Galaxy Diagnostics:
GALAXYDX.COM
How Eye Doctors Diagnose Cat Scratch Disease (Bartonella)
Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome is associated with #Bartonella infection, so when a patient complained of a "little ball" in her eyelid after contact with blood from a cat, she was tested for a variety of zoonotic pathogens, including Bartonella species. In this case, it was #Sporothrix, a fungus found in soil.
Sporothrix species infection is considered an emerging disease. It is associated with activities like gardening, but also with cats bringing it into the human environment on their paws. The fungus can also sicken cats, causing skin lesions most often found on their faces.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Conjunctival and bulbar sporotrichosis as Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome acquired by blood inoculation - PubMed
Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome is associated with #Bartonella infection, so when a patient complained of a "little ball" in her eyelid after contact with blood from a cat, she was tested for a variety of zoonotic pathogens, including Bartonella species. In this case, it was #Sporothrix, a fungus found in soil.
Sporothrix species infection is considered an emerging disease. It is associated with activities like gardening, but also with cats bringing it into the human environment on their paws. The fungus can also sicken cats, causing skin lesions most often found on their faces.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Conjunctival and bulbar sporotrichosis as Parinaud's oculoglandular syndrome acquired by blood inoculation - PubMed
Small Indian mongooses are an invasive species on islands around the world. A study on St. Kitts found that they are a reservoir for a variety of zoonotic pathogens, including #Bartonella henselae.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Small Indian Mongooses ( Herpestes auropunctatus) Serve As Reservoirs of Bartonella henselae and Rickettsia felis Vectored by Ctenocephalides felis - PubMed
Pre-exposure prophylaxis shot of antibodies to prevent #Lymedisease starts testing in Nebraska. The shot is not a vaccine but rather a dose of antibodies that would need to be taken each spring to reduce chance of infection. If studies are successful, it may be on the market by spring 2023.
https://www.wbur.org/commonhealth/2021/02/23/human-testing-begins-on-springtime-lyme-disease-shot-developed-in-mass
A new study co-authored by Galaxy Diagnostics co-founder Dr. Breitschwerdt found that in cats IFA testing for antibodies to #Bartonella henselae was more effective using blood than using oral fluids.
MDPI.COM
Bartonella henselae Antibodies in Serum and Oral Fluid Specimens from Cats
"Evidence is accumulating that tick-transmitted pathogens manipulate tick saliva composition to enhance their own survival, transmission, and evasion of host defenses."
From a new overview of the topic by M. Phame, J. Underwood and A.S. Oliva Chávez.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Changing the Recipe: Pathogen Directed Changes in Tick Saliva Components - PubMed
A coronavirus killed about 7 million pigs in the US starting in 2013 before it was brought under control in 2014. But veterinarians with this experience weren't asked about controlling COVID-19. A #OneHealth opportunity missed.
AVMA.ORG
Veterinary medicine and COVID-19: ‘A lot of lessons here’
A virtual clinical conference for Bartonella is being held by the Infection and Autoimmunity Research and Education Fund (IAREF) next month to discuss the latest findings in research, diagnosis and treatment. Galaxy’s chief scientific officer, Dr. Ed Breitschwerdt, and research and development director/assistant lab director, Dr. Jennifer Miller, will be presenting. Learn more here:
https://iaref.org/events/
The latest #ophthamology imaging technology can be used to improve #Bartonella species infection diagnosis in both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. Find out more, NEW from Galaxy Diagnostics:
GALAXYDX.COM
How Eye Doctors Diagnose Cat Scratch Disease (Bartonella)
A new paper analyzes the human and environmental factors associated with pathogen diversity. This analysis can help countries that don't have robust local data collection predict influences on local pathogen diversity and zoonotic risk. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/tbed.14072
An Ebola survivor transmitted the infection five years after recovering. This event highlights that more research is needed about "viral persistence," which is thought to be related to immune refuge areas such as eyes and testes.
STATNEWS.COM
Stunning analysis traces new Ebola outbreak to survivor of W. Africa crisis
A literature review of #zoonotic pathogens (pathogens shared between animals and people) increasing in Quebec due to climate change found agricultural and veterinary as well as public administration, medical, and social service occupations most frequently identified with increased risk. Knowing your occupational risk for zoonotic pathogens is an important first step in taking action to reduce risk.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Occupations at risk of contracting zoonoses of public health significance in Québec - PubMed
A new study co-authored by Galaxy Diagnostics co-founder Dr. Breitschwerdt found that in cats IFA testing for antibodies to #Bartonella henselae was more effective using blood than using oral fluids.
MDPI.COM
Bartonella henselae Antibodies in Serum and Oral Fluid Specimens from Cats
"Evidence is accumulating that tick-transmitted pathogens manipulate tick saliva composition to enhance their own survival, transmission, and evasion of host defenses."
From a new overview of the topic by M. Phame, J. Underwood and A.S. Oliva Chávez.
PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV
Changing the Recipe: Pathogen Directed Changes in Tick Saliva Components - PubMed
