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Unusual Complications From Babesia Infection: Splenic Infarction and Splenic Rupture in Two Separate Patients.
Benjamin Blackwood1, William Binder1
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|September 27, 2018
Summary
Babesiosis, a tick-borne illness, can cause splenic rupture or infarction, rare but serious complications. Emergency physicians should consider babesiosis in patients with splenic injuries, especially in endemic areas.
Area of Science:
- Emerging infectious diseases
- Parasitology
- Emergency medicine
Background:
- Babesiosis is a zoonotic parasitic infection transmitted by the Ixodes scapularis tick.
- It is increasingly prevalent globally and in the United States.
- Clinical manifestations range from subclinical to fulminant.
Observation:
- Two cases of splenic complications due to Babesia parasitemia were observed within one month.
- One case involved splenic rupture, and the other involved splenic infarction.
- These splenic complications are infrequent and previously unreported in emergency medicine literature.
Findings:
- Babesiosis can lead to splenic infarction and rupture, which are potentially fatal complications.
- The prevalence of Babesia infection necessitates awareness among healthcare providers.
- A high index of suspicion is crucial for diagnosis in patients with splenic injuries.
Implications:
- Emergency physicians must consider babesiosis in patients presenting with splenic injuries, particularly in endemic regions.
- A thorough patient history and appropriate diagnostic testing are essential for early detection.
- Prompt diagnosis and management of babesiosis can prevent severe outcomes and improve patient prognosis.
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