Homelessness and Organ Donor-Derived Bartonella quintana Infection

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health
• Transplant Medicine

Background:

• Louseborne Bartonella quintana infections are prevalent among homeless populations in the US, linked to inadequate hygiene resources.
• Homelessness is rising, and individuals experiencing homelessness are potential organ donors, facing barriers to organ transplantation themselves.
• Recent cases highlight Bartonella quintana transmission through organ transplantation from donors with a history of homelessness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the threat of donor-derived Bartonella quintana infection in immunosuppressed organ transplant recipients.
• To identify interventions for reducing Bartonella quintana transmission from homeless organ donors.
• To improve the quality of life for persons experiencing homelessness and mitigate transplant-related infection risks.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent reports on Bartonella quintana transmission via organ transplantation.
• Analysis of the link between homelessness, hygiene, and louseborne Bartonella quintana infections.
• Identification of potential interventions targeting root causes of transmission.

Main Results:

• Donor-derived Bartonella quintana infection poses a significant risk of severe bartonellosis in organ transplant recipients.
• Inadequate hygiene resources exacerbate Bartonella quintana prevalence in homeless communities.
• Organ transplantation from donors with a history of homelessness can transmit Bartonella quintana.

Conclusions:

• Addressing homelessness and improving hygiene are crucial for preventing Bartonella quintana transmission.
• Screening and prophylactic treatment for organ recipients from at-risk donors are recommended.
• Integrated interventions can reduce infection risks and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.