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Published on: August 25, 2018
Rickettsia amblyommatis in Ticks: A Review of Distribution, Pathogenicity, and Diversity
Elise A Richardson1, R Michael Roe1, Charles S Apperson1
1Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
Abstract:
Rickettsia amblyommatis is a potentially pathogenic species of Rickettsia within the spotted fever group vectored by ticks. While many studies have been published on this species, there is debate over its pathogenicity and the inhibitory role it plays in diagnosing illnesses caused by other spotted fever group Rickettsia species. Many publications have recorded the high infection prevalence of R. amblyommatis in tick populations at a global scale. While this species is rather ubiquitous, questions remain over the epidemiological importance of this possible human pathogen. With tick-borne diseases on the rise, understanding the exact role that R. amblyommatis plays as a pathogen and inhibitor of infection relative to other tick-borne pathogens will help public health efforts. The goal of this review was to compile the known literature on R. amblyommatis, review what we know about its geographic distribution, tick vectors, and pathogenicity, assess relatedness between various international strains from ticks by phylogenetic analysis and draw conclusions regarding future research needed.
Insights
Rickettsia amblyommatis, a tick-borne bacterium, is widespread globally. Further research is needed to clarify its role as a human pathogen and its impact on diagnosing other spotted fever group rickettsial infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
- Vector-borne diseases
Background:
- Rickettsia amblyommatis is a tick-borne bacterium within the spotted fever group.
- Its pathogenicity and role in interfering with diagnostics for other Rickettsia species are debated.
- High infection prevalence of R. amblyommatis has been noted globally in tick populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on R. amblyommatis.
- To analyze its geographic distribution, tick vectors, and pathogenicity.
- To assess international strain relatedness via phylogenetic analysis and identify future research needs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and compilation of existing studies.
- Geographic distribution and tick vector analysis.
- Phylogenetic analysis of international R. amblyommatis strains.
Main Results:
- R. amblyommatis exhibits a wide global distribution in various tick vectors.
- Evidence suggests potential pathogenicity, though its clinical significance remains under investigation.
- Phylogenetic analysis reveals distinct international strain variations.
Conclusions:
- Clarifying the epidemiological significance of R. amblyommatis as a human pathogen is crucial.
- Understanding its inhibitory effect on diagnostic tests for other spotted fever group Rickettsia is essential for public health.
- Further research is required to definitively establish its role in human disease and diagnostics.
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