Borrelia turicatae

Borrelia turicatae

Borrelia turicatae is a species of spirochete bacteria that is known to cause tick-borne relapsing fever (TBRF) in humans. This bacterium is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected soft ticks of the genus Ornithodoros, particularly Ornithodoros turicata.

Taxonomy and Classification

Borrelia turicatae belongs to the genus Borrelia, which is part of the family Spirochaetaceae. This genus includes several other species that are pathogenic to humans, such as Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease.

Morphology

Borrelia turicatae is a helical, motile bacterium characterized by its spiral shape. Like other spirochetes, it possesses axial filaments, also known as endoflagella, which allow it to move in a corkscrew motion. This unique motility is advantageous for navigating through viscous environments, such as host tissues.

Transmission

The primary vector for Borrelia turicatae is the soft tick Ornithodoros turicata. These ticks are typically found in the southern United States and parts of Central America. Unlike hard ticks, soft ticks feed quickly and often go unnoticed by their hosts. The transmission of Borrelia turicatae can occur within minutes of the tick beginning to feed.

Pathogenesis

Once transmitted to a human host, Borrelia turicatae can cause tick-borne relapsing fever, characterized by recurring episodes of fever, headache, muscle and joint aches, and nausea. The relapsing nature of the fever is due to the bacterium's ability to undergo antigenic variation, changing its surface proteins to evade the host's immune response.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of infection with Borrelia turicatae is typically made through blood smear microscopy, serological tests, or molecular methods such as PCR. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, with tetracycline or doxycycline being commonly prescribed. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.

Prevention

Preventive measures include avoiding tick-infested areas, using insect repellent, and wearing protective clothing. Since soft ticks often inhabit rodent burrows, controlling rodent populations can also help reduce the risk of exposure.

Also see

• Borrelia burgdorferi
• Tick-borne relapsing fever
• Lyme disease
• Spirochete
• Ornithodoros

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