Brachial plexopathy associated with human granulocytic ehrlichiosis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Tick-Borne Illnesses

Background:

• Human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE) is a tick-borne zoonosis caused by Ehrlichia chaffeensis.
• Peripheral nervous system involvement is documented in other tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease and rickettsioses.
• Neurological manifestations of HGE are rare and not well-characterized.

Observation:

• A case report of a male patient presenting with acute febrile illness.
• The patient exhibited bilateral brachial plexopathies, a condition affecting the nerves of the shoulder and arm.
• Diagnosis was confirmed through clinical, laboratory, and serological evidence of HGE.

Findings:

• The patient's presentation suggests a postinfectious mechanism for the peripheral neuropathy.
• This case establishes a link between human granulocytic ehrlichiosis and brachial plexopathy.
• The neurological symptoms resolved over time, indicating potential for recovery.

Implications:

• Human granulocytic ehrlichiosis should be included in the differential diagnosis for patients with peripheral nervous system disorders.
• Clinicians should consider HGE in individuals residing in or visiting tick-endemic areas presenting with unexplained neurological symptoms.
• Further research is warranted to understand the pathogenesis and long-term neurological sequelae of HGE.