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Acute flaccid paralysis in a neonate: tick bite a differential?
Vinson James1, Jincy Rajan2, Shincy Rajan3
1Paediatrics, Assumption Hospital, Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad, Kerala, India.
Oxford Medical Case Reports
|July 26, 2021
Summary
Tick paralysis, a rare neurologic syndrome, can affect neonates presenting as weakness and lethargy. Prompt tick removal ensures complete recovery in affected infants.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Tick paralysis is an uncommon, noninfectious neurologic syndrome causing acute ataxia and ascending paralysis, primarily in children.
- While typically seen in children under 10, its presentation and diagnosis in neonates are rare due to atypical symptoms.
Observation:
- Neonatal tick paralysis may manifest subtly as generalized weakness, lethargy, and poor feeding, differing from classic presentations.
- This case highlights the potential for tick paralysis in neonates, a demographic previously unreported for this condition.
Findings:
- A neonate presented with symptoms consistent with tick paralysis, including generalized weakness and lethargy.
- Identification and removal of the causative tick led to a rapid and complete recovery of the infant.
Implications:
- Tick paralysis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of neonates presenting with unexplained weakness and lethargy.
- Early recognition and prompt tick removal are crucial for favorable outcomes, preventing potential respiratory failure and death.
