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Human ehrlichiosis in central Europe
S Lotric-Furlan1, M Petrovec, T Avsic-Zupanc
1Department of Infectious Diseases, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift
|February 27, 1999
Summary
Human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE), a tick-borne illness, is emerging in Europe. This study reports the first confirmed cases in Slovenia, highlighting the need for increased physician awareness and inclusion in differential diagnoses after tick bites.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Tick-borne Pathogens
Background:
- Ehrlichioses are tick-transmitted diseases primarily affecting animals.
- Human infections with Ehrlichia chaffeensis and granulocytic ehrlichia are increasing in the US.
- Human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE) is an emerging infectious disease in Europe.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first confirmed cases of acute human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE) in Slovenia.
- To describe the clinical characteristics and laboratory findings of HGE in European patients.
- To emphasize the importance of considering HGE in the differential diagnosis of febrile illnesses post-tick bite.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of febrile illnesses following tick bites.
- Diagnosis confirmed by seroconversion to the HGE agent.
- Molecular identification of ehrlichial organisms.
Main Results:
- Five cases of acute HGE were identified in Slovenia between 1997 and the study period.
- Clinical and laboratory findings were similar to US cases, but the disease course was milder.
- All patients recovered rapidly without sequelae, irrespective of antibiotic treatment.
Conclusions:
- Human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE) is present in Europe and should be considered in febrile illnesses after tick bites.
- Lack of physician awareness and public knowledge may lead to underdiagnosis of ehrlichiosis.
- Early diagnosis and inclusion of HGE in differential diagnosis are crucial for effective management.