Babesia-The Vampire Babies Flashcards
1
Q
Where is Babesia commonly found
A
Northeastern US
2
Q
What is the vector for Babesia
A
Ixodes tick
3
Q
Which other illness is commonly coinfected with Babesia
A
Lyme disease (Borellia) because they share the same vector
4
Q
What are the clinical presentation of Babesia
A
- Blood issues (hemolytic anemia)
- Fever
- irregular cycling fever
- jaundice (due to hemolysis)
5
Q
Which population is at a higher risk of developing disease as a result of Babesia
A
Sickle celled patients, and those without spleens (asplenic)
6
Q
How is Babesia diagnosed
A
Blood smear, where the RBC will contain the Maltese like cross
7
Q
What will be unique about RBCs in a blood smear with Babesia
A
Maltese cross due to tetrad of trophozoites
8
Q
What are the treatments for Babesia
A
- Atovaquone
- Azithromycin (macrolides)
