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Unmasking Bartonella henselae infection in the shadows of long COVID thanks to clinical metagenomics
Aubry A, Corvilain E, Ghelfenstein-Ferreira T, Camelena F, Meignin V, Berçot B, Le Goff J, Salmona M. Unmasking Bartonella henselae infection in the shadows of long COVID thanks to clinical metagenomics. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2024 May;43(5):1025-1029. doi: 10.1007/s10096-024-04801-2. Epub 2024 Mar 12. PMID: 38472519.
This case study highlights how clinical metagenomics uncovered a hidden Bartonella henselae infection in a patient with long COVID symptoms. A 26-year-old woman, experiencing prolonged post-COVID symptoms, including axillary adenopathy, was diagnosed with bartonellosis after a biopsy revealed B. henselae DNA and RNA. Treatment with clarithromycin led to symptom improvement. The case emphasizes the importance of thorough investigation for hidden infections in long COVID, especially when encountering polyadenopathy, regardless of exposure to cats or fleas.
PANDAS coexisting with gastrointestinal and cerebellar manifestation

Aftab Ahmed, Fatima Bint Sajid, Zaib Un Nisa Mughal, Wajeeha Binte Sajid, Abdul Haseeb,
PANDAS coexisting with gastrointestinal and cerebellar manifestation, Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health, Volume 2, 2024,100086, ISSN 2949-916X, DOI: /10.1016/j.glmedi.2024.100086.

We wish to bring attention to the importance of PANDAS in pediatric patients, as it can have a detrimental impact on their academic and social development. The scarcity of PANDAS cases in Pakistan may be attributed due to lack of awareness and interdisciplinary communication. Enhanced cross-referral between pediatricians and psychiatrists can help alleviate the morbidity and disability associated with this condition. This case highlights the need to recognize atypical PANDAS presentations that exhibit unique neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management in these intricate cases.

Silent Infections are not So Silent: The Emerging Role of Combined Infections, Inflammation, and Vitamin Levels in OCD
Marazziti D, Massa L, Carbone MG, Palermo S, Arone A, D’Angelo G, Schulz Bizzozzero Crivelli N, Gurrieri R, Perrone P, Palagini L, Dell’Osso L. Silent Infections are not So Silent: The Emerging Role of Combined Infections, Inflammation, and Vitamin Levels in OCD. Clin Neuropsychiatry. 2024 Feb;21(1):7-21. doi: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20240101. PMID: 38559435; PMCID: PMC10979795.

Conclusions: 

  • The findings of our study show an association between Epstein-Barr infection and hypovitaminosis D and the overall severity and specific symptom patterns of OCD.
  • The laboratory measures used in this study are useful, cheap and easy parameters that should be routinely assessed in patients with OCD.
  • Further studies are needed to clarify their role in OCD pathophysiology and outcomes, as well as the potential therapeutic impact of vitamins and antibiotics/immunomodulatory agents in OCD and other psychiatric conditions.