Babesia
Babesia (pronunciation: /bəˈbiːziə/) is a genus of protozoan parasites that infect the red blood cells of various animals, including humans. The infection caused by these parasites is known as Babesiosis.
Etymology
The genus name Babesia is derived from the Romanian bacteriologist Victor Babeș, who first identified the parasite in cattle in 1888.
Description
Babesia are small, pear-shaped, intracellular parasites that infect red blood cells. They are transmitted by ticks, primarily the Ixodes species. The parasites multiply within the red blood cells, causing hemolytic anemia, fever, and other symptoms.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Babesia involves two hosts: a vertebrate host (such as a human or animal) and an invertebrate host (the tick). The parasite is transmitted to the vertebrate host when an infected tick bites and feeds on the host's blood. Inside the host, the parasites infect and multiply within the red blood cells.
Symptoms of Babesiosis
In humans, symptoms of babesiosis can range from mild to severe and can include fever, fatigue, anemia, and other flu-like symptoms. In severe cases, the disease can cause complications such as kidney failure or death.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of babesiosis is typically made through microscopic examination of a blood sample. Treatment usually involves a combination of antibiotics and antimalarial drugs.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Babesia
- Wikipedia's article - Babesia
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