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Human babesiosis in Alsace
A Paleau1, E Candolfi2, L Souply3
1Service de maladies infectieuses, boulevard Louis-Escande, 71018 Mâcon cedex, France.
Medecine Et Maladies Infectieuses
|September 25, 2019
Summary
Human babesiosis, a tick-borne illness, is likely underdiagnosed in Alsace, France. This study identified definite and possible cases, highlighting the need for increased awareness and diagnostic efforts for this rare parasitic infection.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Human babesiosis is a rare zoonotic disease transmitted by ticks.
- Only 56 cases have been reported in Europe, with two in Alsace, France, in 2009.
- Understanding the epidemiology in Alsace is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the epidemiology of human babesiosis in Alsace, France.
- To identify definite, possible, and incompatible cases of babesiosis.
- To analyze the characteristics of confirmed babesiosis cases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective observational descriptive study from 2005 to 2015.
- Inclusion criteria: positive Babesia serology, blood smear, or PCR.
- Case classification: definite (PCR/smear/seroconversion), possible (serology + compatible symptoms), incompatible (serology + no compatible symptoms/other diagnoses).
Main Results:
- Fifty-one patients had at least one positive diagnostic test.
- Six definite cases, 12 possible cases, and 30 incompatible cases were identified.
- All definite cases occurred in immunocompetent individuals; no deaths were reported.
Conclusions:
- Human babesiosis is likely underdiagnosed due to non-specific symptoms.
- Lack of clinician awareness and diagnostic challenges contribute to underdiagnosis.
- Further research and improved diagnostic strategies are needed.
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