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.
Gabriella True
