Tick-borne trauma: an unusual presentation of anaplasmosis

Tick-borne diseases present a special problem in Connecticut and the Northeastern United States. The tick species Ixodes scapularis known for Lyme disease may also infect humans with anaplasmosis, while other tick species [Amblyomma spp.] may transmit ehrlichiosis. These illnesses may present in various ways depending on the virulence of the organism and variable host factors.

Our patient presented as a motor vehicle trauma presumably from encephalopathy secondary to anaplasmosis. Unusual features of the patient's case led to the causative diagnosis on peripheral blood smear examination.

Tick-borne diseases are endemic in Connecticut. The astute clinician should maintain a healthy vigilance for these illnesses. Although our patient presented as a trauma, the presumed precipitating disease could have been treated. Physician awareness and patient education may lessen the impact of these diseases.