Larval tick infestation: a case report and review of tick-borne disease
Fibeger, E.A.; Erickson, Q.L.; Weintraub, B.D.; Elston, D.M.
Cutis 82(1): 38-46
2008
ISSN/ISBN: 0011-4162 PMID: 18712023 Document Number: 615949
Tick-borne disease in the United States continues to be a threat as people interact with their natural surroundings. We present a case of an 8-year-old boy with a larval tick infestation. Ticks within the United States can carry Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, tularemia, tick-borne relapsing fever, and tick paralysis. These preventable diseases are treatable when accurately recognized and diagnosed; however, if left untreated, they can cause substantial morbidity and mortality. This article highlights the knowledge necessary to recognize, treat, and prevent tickborne disease.