From Dr Horowitz
Babesiosis is one of the most frequently observed co-infections in my
Lyme patients that contributes to persistent illness. There are many
species of Babesia, and Babesia microti and Babesia WA-1/duncani are the
most common species in the US, with Babesia divergens and Babesia
venatorum (EU-1) being commonly seen in Europe. Other species are
emerging in the US like Babesia odocoilei
(Increased diversity of zoonotic pathogens and Borrelia burgdorferi strains in established versus incipient Ixodes scapularis populations across the Midwestern United States. Hamera, S. et al. DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2014.06.003). In this article published in Cellular Microbiology, the authors describe details of Babesia's biology that may help us to control parasite populations. Any Lyme patient with ongoing unexplained malaria-like symptoms such as fevers, day and night sweats, chills, an unexplained cough and "air hunger/shortness of breath" may have Babesiosis. A Babesia panel, checking titers (IFA for B.microti and B. duncani), PCR's and RNA testing (FISH, IgeneX laboratory) may help identify Babesiosis. A differential diagnostic map to identify the multiple causes of fevers and sweats can be found on page 68 of Why Can't I Get Better?".
(Increased diversity of zoonotic pathogens and Borrelia burgdorferi strains in established versus incipient Ixodes scapularis populations across the Midwestern United States. Hamera, S. et al. DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2014.06.003). In this article published in Cellular Microbiology, the authors describe details of Babesia's biology that may help us to control parasite populations. Any Lyme patient with ongoing unexplained malaria-like symptoms such as fevers, day and night sweats, chills, an unexplained cough and "air hunger/shortness of breath" may have Babesiosis. A Babesia panel, checking titers (IFA for B.microti and B. duncani), PCR's and RNA testing (FISH, IgeneX laboratory) may help identify Babesiosis. A differential diagnostic map to identify the multiple causes of fevers and sweats can be found on page 68 of Why Can't I Get Better?".
Accepted
Article (Accepted, unedited articles published online and citable. The
final edited and typeset version of record will appear in future.)
