2005 TBDS: Initially, serologic methods are of little benefit because they lack sensitivity early in the disease course

CALIFORNIALYME 2005-09-14 09:59:23

1: Pharmacotherapy. 2005 Feb;25(2):191-210. Related Articles, Links

Tick-borne bacterial, rickettsial, spirochetal, and protozoal
infectious diseases in the United States: a comprehensive review.

Amsden JR, Warmack S, Gubbins PO.

Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of
Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205, USA.
jramsden@uams.edu

Approximately 900 tick species exist worldwide, and they parasitize a
variety of mammals, including humans; thus, ticks play a significant
role in the transmission of infectious diseases. In the United States,
tick-borne diseases are seasonally and geographically distributed; they
typically occur during spring and summer but can occur throughout the
year. Tick-borne diseases are endemic to a variety of geographic
regions of the United States, depending on the species of tick commonly
found in a specific locale. Specific tick-borne diseases are difficult
to diagnose. Most patients have vague constitutional symptoms and
nonspecific laboratory findings. Initially, serologic methods are of
little benefit because they lack sensitivity early in the disease
course. Therefore, a thorough history and physical examination are
necessary for establishing a diagnosis. Antimicrobial regimens for
tick-borne infections are poorly studied but well established.
Tetracyclines and rifampin form the cornerstones of therapy for most
tick-borne infections, but these agents may not be suitable for all
patient populations. Therefore, no single agent can be chosen
empirically to treat all tick-borne diseases. Because pharmacists are
the most accessible health care providers, they are often asked how to
treat tick-borne diseases. Thus, practitioners should be familiar with
the ticks that inhabit their locale.

Publication Types:
Review

PMID: 15767235 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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