Diagnosis and Management of Babesiosis
Diagnosis
Comment: The diagnosis of babesiosis should be based on epidemiological risk factors and clinical evidence, and confirmed by blood smear examination or PCR.
Comment: A single positive antibody test is not sufficient to establish a diagnosis of babesiosis because Babesia antibodies can persist in blood for a year or more following apparent clearance of infection, with or without treatment.
Treatment
Comment: Exchange transfusion may be considered for patients with high-grade parasitemia (>10%) or who have any one or more of the following: severe hemolytic anemia and/or severe pulmonary, renal, or hepatic compromise. Expert consultation with a transfusion services physician or hematologist in conjunction with an infectious diseases specialist is strongly advised.
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Overview
Title
Diagnosis and Management of Babesiosis
Authoring Organization
Infectious Diseases Society of America
Endorsing Organizations
American Academy of Neurology
American College of Rheumatology
Publication Month/Year
January 15, 2021
Last Updated Month/Year
July 11, 2023
Supplemental Implementation Tools
Document Type
Guideline
External Publication Status
Published
Country of Publication
US
Inclusion Criteria
Female, Male, Adolescent, Adult, Child, Infant, Older adult
Health Care Settings
Ambulatory, Hospital
Intended Users
Physician, epidemiology infection prevention, nurse, nurse practitioner, physician assistant
Scope
Diagnosis, Management, Treatment
Diseases/Conditions (MeSH)
D001404 - Babesiosis
Keywords
clindamycin, babesiosis