[TIBOLA--a new tick-borne infection]

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pediatrics

Context:

• A novel tick-transmitted infection was observed in 27 patients over 14 months.
• Symptoms did not align with previously identified tick-borne illnesses.
• The infection predominantly affected young children.

Purpose:

• To describe a newly identified tick-borne infection.
• To characterize the clinical presentation, epidemiology, and potential treatment of this new disease.
• To propose a name for the condition: Tick-BOrne LymphAdenopathy (TIBOLA).

Summary:

• Patients presented with painful lymphadenopathy near the tick bite site, often on the scalp, and a herpes-like eschar.
• The tick bite was from a notably large, engorged tick.
• Geographic distribution appears restricted to the Danube river region in Hungary.
• Doxycycline treatment may shorten the disease duration.

Impact:

• Identifies a new tick-borne illness, TIBOLA, distinct from Lyme borreliosis.
• Highlights the need for further research to confirm the causative agent, likely a rickettsia.
• Provides crucial information for clinicians regarding diagnosis and management of this emerging infection.