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Babesiosis Presenting as Acute Liver Failure
1Albany Medical Center, Albany, New York, USA.
Case Reports in Gastroenterology
|February 13, 2018
Summary
Babesiosis is a tick-borne illness caused by the protozoan Babesia. This case highlights acute liver failure in an elderly man due to Babesia microti infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Babesiosis is a zoonotic, tick-borne disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Babesia.
- Ixodes ticks are the primary vectors, transmitting Babesia species to humans.
- Babesia microti is the most prevalent species in the Northeastern and Midwestern United States, with seasonal peaks from May to October.
Observation:
- This report details a case of an elderly male patient.
- The patient presented with acute liver failure.
Findings:
- The acute liver failure was diagnosed as being caused by Babesia microti infection.
- This highlights a severe, albeit uncommon, manifestation of B. microti.
Implications:
- Babesiosis, particularly B. microti, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute liver failure, especially in endemic areas.
- Early recognition and treatment are crucial for managing severe babesiosis cases.
- Further research into the pathogenesis of Babesia-induced liver injury may be warranted.
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