Anaplasmosis - Another Tick Borne Disease

Anaplasmosis is a disease caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilium.  This pathogen is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected tick.  The black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis) is the vector of A.phagocytophilum in the northeast. 

The first symptoms of anaplasmosis typically begin within 1-2 weeks after the bite of an infected tick.  A tick bite is usually painless, and some patients who develop anaplasmosis do not remember being bitten.  The following is a list of symptoms commonly seen with this disease.  However, it is important to note that few people with the disease will develop all symptoms, and the number and combination of symptoms varies greatly from person to person.

*  Fever                                       *  Nausea/Abdominal Pain
*  Headache                                *  Cough
*  Muscle Pain                             *  Confusion
*  Malaise                                    *  Rash (rare with anaplasmosis)
*  Chills

Anaplasmosis can be a serious illness that can be fatal if not treated correctly, even in previously healthy people.  The severity of anaplasmosis may depend in part on the immune status of the patient.

Healthcare providers may find important information in the patient's history and physical examination that may aid clinical diagnosis.  Information such as recent tick bites, exposure to areas where ticks are likely to be found, or history of recent travel to areas where anaplasmosis is endemic can be helpful in making the diagnosis.  The healthcare provider should also look at routine blood tests, such as a complete blood cell count or a chemistry panel.

Doxycycline is the first line of treatment for adults and children of all ages and should be initiated immediately whenever anaplasmosis is suspected.
Contact your Doctor if you suspect a tick bite and you are having symptoms.