Highlights & Basics
- Babesiosis is transmitted to humans through the blood meal of Ixodes ticks, the same vector as for Lyme disease and human granulocytic anaplasmosis.
- Peak transmission occurs from May to September in the upper midwestern and northeastern US. The disease is rare in other countries.
- Transfusion-related transmission is emerging as an important secondary mode of transmission; therefore, transmission can occur anywhere and at any time of year.
- Usually asymptomatic or presents as a mild viral-type illness in young and healthy people. May cause more serious disease or be fatal in asplenic or immunocompromised patients and in older people.
- Diagnosis is made by visualization of parasites on a peripheral blood smear or by molecular testing.
Quick Reference
History & Exam
Key Factors
Other Factors
Diagnostics Tests
Treatment Options
Definition
Epidemiology
Etiology
Pathophysiology
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Citations
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