Babesiosis-associated Splenic Rupture: Case Series From a Hyperendemic Region. (12th December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Patel, Kavin M; Johnson, Jennie E; Reece, Rebecca; Mermel, Leonard A
• Is Part Of: Clinical infectious diseases. Volume 69:Number 7(2019)
• Page Start: 1212
• Page End: 1217
• Publication Date: 2018-12-12
• Subjects: babesiosis -- tick-borne disease -- splenic rupture; Communicable diseases -- Periodicals; 616.905
• DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciy1060
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1058-4838

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Spontaneous splenic rupture is an increasingly reported complication of babesiosis and has been described as a severe complication. Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review in a high-prevalence area to identify 7 cases of babesiosis-related splenic rupture between 2014 and 2016. Results: Splenic rupture occurred in approximately 1% of babesiosis cases. Compared to cases without splenic rupture, these patients were younger (by >10 years), healthier (most with ≤1 comorbidity), had a lower degree of parasitemia (<10%), and were less likely to have end-organ dysfunction other than their splenic involvement. Conclusions: Younger, healthier patients may be more prone to develop splenic rupture, as splenic histiocytes engage in more robust erythrophagocytosis, leading to pathological mechanical strain and rupture. Abstract : Babesiosis-associated splenic rupture is more likely to occur in younger and healthier patients, and with lower degrees of parasitemia and end-organ dysfunction.