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Tick-borne diseases
1Department of Neurology, State University of New York at Stony Brook, USA.
Abstract:
Tick-transmitted infectious agents have assumed increased importance as causes of human disease in the United States. During the past two decades, Lyme borreliosis, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis have emerged as newly described tick-borne infectious diseases of significance for pediatricians and pediatric neurologists. In fact, the highest rates of infection for Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), by decade of age, are in childhood. As such, tick-borne infectious disease are of considerable public health concern, particularly for children residing in endemic regions. RMSF and human ehrlichioses can be life-threatening but are also eminently treatable when recognized early. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to adverse outcomes. This article reviews the clinical and epidemiological features of Lyme borreliosis, RMSF, and ehrlichiosis, important causes of neurological illness among children, and summarizes current therapeutic and preventive strategies.
Insights
Tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) significantly impact children in the US. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing severe outcomes from these treatable infections.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Tick-borne infectious agents are a growing public health concern in the US.
- Lyme borreliosis, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis are significant tick-borne diseases, particularly in children.
- Highest infection rates for Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) occur in childhood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical and epidemiological features of key tick-borne illnesses in children.
- To summarize current therapeutic and preventive strategies for pediatric tick-borne diseases.
- To highlight the public health importance of tick-borne infections in pediatric populations.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical and epidemiological data on Lyme borreliosis, RMSF, and ehrlichiosis.
- Analysis of disease significance for pediatricians and pediatric neurologists.
- Summary of current treatment and prevention guidelines.
Main Results:
- Lyme borreliosis, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis are emerging tick-borne diseases of concern.
- Children are disproportionately affected by Lyme disease and RMSF.
- RMSF and ehrlichioses are life-threatening but treatable if diagnosed early.
Conclusions:
- Tick-borne diseases pose a considerable public health risk to children in endemic areas.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital for favorable outcomes in pediatric cases of RMSF and ehrlichiosis.
- Understanding clinical features and implementing preventive strategies are essential for managing pediatric tick-borne illnesses.