Clinical features and treatment of babesiosis (pyroplasmosis)
Diseases Transmitted by Ticks, NOVA Publications , ss.301-310, 2021
- Yayın Türü: Kitapta Bölüm / Araştırma Kitabı
- Basım Tarihi: 2021
- Yayınevi: NOVA Publications
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.301-310
- Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Babesia infects erythrocytes and causes hemolysis. While causing a cold-like illness in young people without comorbidities. It can be life-threatening in elderly and immunosuppressed patients. Infections due to B. microti are often asymptomatic. The most prominent feature on physical examination is intermittent and persistent fever, which can reach 40°C. Laboratory results are compatible with hemolytic anemia. Immunosuppressed group and in the risk group in terms of complications. Complications are more common in patients with high parasitemia (>10%) and severe anemia. Most hospitalized patients have parasitemia 4%, and about half have complications. B. divergens is frequently seen in asplenic patients and has a more serious course than B. microti infections. Treatment is not recommended in asymptomatic and immunocompetent patients with a positive result from peripheral smear or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test in babesiosis infection. In mild cases, for adults; Atovaquone 750 mg orally twice a day plus azithromycin 500 mg orally once on day 1 and 250mg orally once daily beginning on day 2, is currently a first-line treatment. In adults with severe babesiosis caused by B. microti; a regimen of atovaquone 750 mg orally every 12 hours plus azithromycin 500 mg IV once daily seems to be the most effective drug combination. Exchange transfusion should be performed in patients with renal, hepatic and pulmonary dysfunction. Minimizing exposure to ticks and personal protective measures are the most important issues in preventing babesiosis.