Tick paralysis Flashcards
What is tick paralysis?
rare, ascending flaccid paralysis that occurs when toxin-secreting Ixodidae ticks bite and remain attached for several days
How do certain species of ticks cause tick paralysis?
secrete a neurotoxin in tick saliva
When is the neurotoxin causing paralysis secreted in tick saliva?
only when a tick has fed for several days or more, not in early stages of feeding
In which locations of tick attachment can a single tick cause paralysis?
back of skull or near spine
What are 7 symptoms and signs of tick paralysis?
- Anorexia
- Lethargy
- Muscle weakness
- Impaired coordination
- Nustagmus
- Ascending flaccid paralysis
- Bulbar or respiratory paralysis
When should tick paralysis be considered as the diagnosis?
patients with acute ascending flaccid paralysis or bulbar paralysis
What should be done to help confirm a diagnosis of tick paralysis once suspected?
tick should be sough over entire body surface and be removed
What are 5 differentials for tick paralysis?
- Guillain-Barré syndrome
- Botulism
- Myasthenia gravis
- Hypokalaemia
- Spinal cord tumour
What are the 2 key aspects of the treatment of tick paralysis?
- Removal of ticks
- Supportive care
What is the most severe outcome of tick paralysis?
can be fatal
How can tick paralysis be reversed?
rapid removal of tick/ticks
Following tick removal, how long does it typically take for paralysis to resolve?
in a few hours after tick removal, but can also progress for 24-48h after tick removal
What treatment may be needed if breathing is impaired in tick paralysis?
oxygen therapy or respiratory assistance
