Tick paralysis
Keywords:
tick toxicosis, tick saliva, tick bites, ascending flaccid paralysisAbstract
Over 50 tick species of Argasidae and Ixodidae family can cause toxicoses in hosts. Among them tick paralysis is the most dangerous for people and animals. Toxins causing the syndrome are secreted by “b” cells in the salivary glands during tick feeding.
Tick paralysis is characterized by incoordination, ataxia, muscular weakness and ascending symmetrical paralysis without antecedent symptoms. The fi rst signs of paralysis occur in the lower limbs, and then they extend to the torso, upper limbs, neck and face. There are no sensory changes and no fever. There also occurs a decrease in conduction velocity and muscle action potential amplitude. Symptoms usually recede rapidly upon removal of the tick.
Prevention of tick bites and prompt removal of the attached tick restrict the development of tick paralysis.
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