Tick Paralysis in Human; a Case Report

Abstract

Background: Tick paralysis is a disease of human and animals characterized by an acute ascending flaccid motor paralysis. The condition may terminate fatally unless the tick(s) are removed before respiratory paralysis occurs. Patient: A 48 years old female was referred to a clinic in Tehran with edema at the head and neck regions. She had fever and disequilibrium. She reported a travel to mountainous parts of Tehran in early spring. During physical examination a small tick was found attached firmly to the head. It has been detached and sent to Razi Research Institute and a female Dermacentor marginatus (Acari: Ixodidae) was verified. Following the tick removal the patient's condition was improved. Conclusion: With respect to a rich fauna of Ixodid ticks in Iran, it is important to keep in mind the tick associated complications in this area.