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Babesiosis 

Babesiosis
Chapter:
Babesiosis
Author(s):

Philippe Brasseur

DOI:
10.1093/med/9780198746690.003.0161
Page of

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date: 05 March 2021

Babesia are intraerythrocytic, tick-transmitted, protozoan parasites that infect a broad range of wild and domesticated mammals including cattle, horses, dogs, and rodents. Human babesial infection is uncommon, mainly caused by B. microti in North America and B. divergens in Europe, with most infections occurring in asplenic people. Presentation is typically with non-specific ‘viral-type’ symptoms. Haemolytic anaemia is a characteristic feature and can be severe, particularly with B. divergens. Diagnosis is by discovering babesia organisms in Giemsa-stained blood smears, or detection of its DNA in blood by polymerase chain reaction. Aside from supportive care, treatment is usually with combinations of clindamycin and quinine or atovaquone and azithromycin. Mortality ranges from 5 to 40%. Prevention is by use of repellents, removing ticks from the skin, and avoidance of exposure in asplenic and immunocompromised individuals: there is no vaccine.

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